HARARE – Zimbabwe has issued a safety advisory to its citizens living in or travelling to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign n...
HARARE – Zimbabwe has issued a safety advisory to its citizens living in or travelling to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, as the United Nations condemned the violence and urged respect for human rights.
The advisory comes after reports of attacks and intimidation in KwaZulu-Natal, where some migrants, including Ghanaians and other African nationals, were allegedly harassed over their immigration status. South African authorities have since promised action against those involved.
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Zimbabwean officials urged citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid gatherings that could turn violent, and ensure their legal and travel documents are up to date. They also encouraged nationals facing threats to contact Zimbabwe’s diplomatic missions for assistance.
The warning is significant given that South Africa hosts one of the largest Zimbabwean diaspora communities, many of whom work in sectors such as retail, construction, domestic services, agriculture and transport. Any rise in anti-migrant sentiment often causes concern among Zimbabwean families who depend on cross-border incomes and remittances.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was deeply concerned by the latest incidents. In a statement marking South Africa’s Freedom Day, he condemned violence, vigilantism and incitement to hatred, saying such actions had no place in a democratic society governed by law.
Guterres also noted that South Africa’s liberation struggle had been supported by African and international solidarity, adding that the country’s growth had been shaped by the contributions of people from across the continent. He said social and economic grievances must be handled lawfully and without discrimination.
South Africa’s government has publicly rejected the attacks. Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola said violence against migrant communities threatened the constitutional values of the country. The police ministry also pledged to identify, arrest and prosecute anyone responsible for attacks or incitement.
Campaigners for migrant rights say foreign nationals are often blamed for unemployment, crime and weak economic conditions. Similar outbreaks of xenophobic violence have occurred in South Africa in previous years, damaging businesses, displacing communities and straining diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries.
Analysts say the latest developments may place pressure on regional governments within Southern African Development Community to strengthen protections for migrants and improve labour mobility frameworks. South Africa remains a key destination for regional workers because of its larger economy and employment opportunities.
For Zimbabwe, the advisory reflects concern for citizens abroad while also highlighting the economic links between the two neighbours. Thousands of Zimbabweans cross the border legally each year for trade, work, study and family visits.
Officials urged calm while encouraging Zimbabweans in affected areas to follow local security guidance, avoid confrontation and report threats immediately. Diplomatic channels between Harare and Pretoria are expected to remain active as the situation develops.
