African Monitor’s stance on xenophobic attacks in South Africa

African Monitor has been following the issue of recent attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa with disappointment and deep concern. It is a pity and shame that a small section of South Africans would engage in such irresponsible harassing, injuring and killing of fellow Africans.

The recent spate of xenophobic attacks is against the spirit of Africa. It is ironic and a mockery to the African spirit that these attacks take place in May, which is a month to reflect on Africa’s achievements and celebrate the continent’s gains. Above all the acts are counter-development. The acts of looting and criminality undermine the gains that Africa has achieved and will unfortunately remain a disgraceful scar in the history of Africa as a whole.

We are in solidarity with various partners who are taking both alleviatory and preventive measures on the crisis. We also rally behind the various organizations and bodies who are taking care of the victims and call upon more actors to complement these efforts and work to conscientise the South African population to avoid similar incidents in future.