Several African governments, including Kenya, Malawi, and Lesotho, have urged citizens in South Africa to remain cautious and stay indoors following a surge in xenophobic attacks targeting migrants. The unrest, fueled by anger over rising unemployment, has intensified pressure on foreign workers and undocumented migrants, many from neighboring African states. Ghana and Nigeria have also begun repatriating citizens at risk because of the violence, with Accra urging the African Union to intervene. The situation grants anti-immigrant vigilante groups like Operation Dudula, who are at the forefront, political momentum and visibility. Meanwhile, the violence places migrants and foreign nationals in physical danger and at risk of economic displacement. In the long term, continued attacks risk isolating South Africa diplomatically and economically from the rest of the continent, undermining its standing as a regional leader.
Reuters
