South Africa is witnessing a surge in anti-migrant demonstrations as the country prepares for local government elections scheduled for November, with growing concerns that economic hardship, unemployment, and political competition are fueling hostility toward undocumented foreign nationals.
Hundreds of protesters gathered in Kwa-Thema, east of Johannesburg, on Monday in one of the largest anti-migrant demonstrations seen in recent months.
Participants, many carrying traditional sticks, shields, and whips, called for undocumented migrants to leave the country, citing concerns over jobs, housing, and access to public resources.
Leading the demonstration was activist Phakela Ndabandaba, who has become one of the most visible figures in a growing network of citizen-led groups advocating stricter immigration enforcement.
Addressing supporters, he argued that widespread unemployment and economic struggles have intensified frustrations among many South Africans.
South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with official figures remaining above 30 percent.
Protest organizers claim undocumented migrants are competing with local residents for limited employment opportunities and social services.
Reports of Intimidation and Forced Departures
The protests have coincided with reports of intimidation targeting foreign nationals in several communities.
Some migrants have alleged that groups of residents have gone door-to-door demanding that undocumented foreigners leave before a self-imposed June 30 deadline, despite the date having no legal or governmental backing.
Among those affected is Malawian national Uledi Folloma, who described being forced from his accommodation after a group allegedly broke into his residence and removed his belongings.
He was among dozens of migrants seeking assistance while awaiting transportation arranged by their home governments.
Several African countries, including Malawi, Mozambique, and Ghana, have facilitated the return of hundreds of their nationals from South Africa in recent weeks.
Authorities have indicated that many of those returning lacked the required documentation to remain in the country legally.
Leaders Reject Violence Allegations
Despite growing tensions, leaders of the protest movement insist they are not encouraging violence.
Ndabandaba said his organization has conducted demonstrations for more than a year without engaging in physical attacks on migrants.
He maintained that the movement’s objective is to pressure political leaders to address immigration concerns rather than pursue political office.
“We want government to listen to citizens’ concerns and enforce existing immigration laws,” he said during the gathering.
Election Season Adds Political Dimension
The renewed focus on immigration comes as political parties begin campaigning ahead of November’s municipal elections.
The elections are expected to be a major test for President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which lost its national parliamentary majority in the 2024 elections.
Political analysts believe immigration has become an increasingly influential issue as parties compete for voter support.
Some observers argue that grassroots protest movements could shape electoral outcomes, even if they do not formally align themselves with political parties.
The demonstrations have also drawn attention to leaders such as Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, founder of the March and March movement, which gained national attention after organizing protests at public healthcare facilities over the issue of foreign nationals’ access to services.
Although Ngobese-Zuma has publicly denied political ambitions, opposition party ActionSA has indicated it would welcome her involvement in politics.
Experts Warn of Escalating Risks
Migration and governance experts have warned that the combination of economic hardship, rising anti-immigration sentiment, and election-season rhetoric could create a volatile environment.
Analysts say social media has played a significant role in amplifying anti-migrant narratives, while questions remain over who is financing some of the nationwide protest activities.
Human rights advocates have urged authorities to prevent violence and ensure that immigration concerns are addressed through lawful and constitutional processes rather than vigilante actions.
With several months remaining before the elections, observers warn that tensions could continue to rise unless political leaders, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies work to prevent further xenophobic incidents and protect vulnerable communities.
