African States Threaten Action as Xenophobia Crisis Deepens in South Africa

Diplomatic tensions are rising across Africa as several countries consider retaliatory measures against South Africa following a renewed wave of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians.

The latest unrest, which broke out between April 27 and 29, 2026, saw protests in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, with migrants reportedly subjected to violence and intimidation. Nigerian and other African nationals were among those most affected.

While South African authorities have described the incidents as criminal acts, analysts say the developments are fuelling one of the most serious regional diplomatic strains in years.

Several countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, have summoned South African diplomats to express concern and demand stronger protection for their citizens. Abuja has also begun voluntary evacuation arrangements for Nigerians in South Africa, with more than 130 already registered for repatriation.

Ghana’s foreign ministry also protested alleged harassment of its nationals, while Tanzania and Botswana have reportedly considered stronger measures, including border restrictions and economic counteractions, though these have not been officially confirmed at government level.

Mozambique is also said to be reviewing possible restrictions at key border points, reflecting growing regional unease over the situation.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence, insisting that lawlessness will not be tolerated. However, Nigeria has stressed that diplomatic assurances must be backed by concrete action, noting that hundreds of Nigerians have been killed in xenophobic incidents in South Africa over the past decade.

Officials in Abuja have warned that all diplomatic options remain open if attacks persist, as regional pressure continues to build on Pretoria to address recurring violence against foreign nationals.

Source: Vanguard