Anti-Migrant Tensions Remain a Major Issue in South Africa

Anti-migrant tensions continue to attract national attention in South Africa, with concerns over undocumented migration, unemployment and pressure on public services fueling protests and political debate.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobia and warned that people involved in violence against foreign nationals will face arrest and prosecution. He said police and security agencies are gathering evidence against those responsible.
The issue has also created concern among neighbouring African countries. Ghana, for example, has repatriated citizens amid reports of anti-foreigner attacks, while regional governments have urged South Africa to protect their nationals.
South African authorities maintain that immigration laws must be enforced, but insist that this must be done by government institutions rather than through vigilantism or violence. The government has also reported more than 77,000 undocumented foreign nationals repatriated as of August 3, 2026.
The growing tensions present both a domestic security challenge and a diplomatic concern for South Africa as it seeks to maintain strong with other African nations.