by MTHULISI SIBANDA
Africa Editor
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – ZIMBABWEAN authorities in South Africa have issued an advisory note to their nationals in the neighbouring country following the recurrence of xenophobic incidents.
The Zimbabwean Consulate has issued the precautions after confirming its offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town had received “disturbing reports” of demonstrations targeting foreign nationals.
“These reports pose a serious risk to the safety and wellbeing of Zimbabweans residing in South Africa,” the consulate stated.
Therefore, Zimbabwean nationals are advised to remain vigilant and avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, stay indoors and limit unplanned movements, report incidents to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Embassy and Consulate, and keep essential documents with them at all times.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring the safety, dignity and wellbeing of its nationals.”
Zimbabweans, the majority of whom have fled economic problems, comprise the highest number of foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to South Africa’s 2022 Census, about 1,1 million live in South Africa, representing 45 percent of the foreign-born population.
Estimates often rise to three million.
Vigilante groups have in recent days staged marches agitating for foreign nationals to leave the country. Some demand that even those with documents vacate.
The groups have defied orders by the government to desist and leave enforcement of immigration laws to authorities.
March in March, spearheading the demonstrations, has scheduled the next mass action for Wednesday (today) in Johannesburg.
On Tuesday, supported by groups like ActionSA (an opposition party) and Operation Dudula, delivered a memorandum of demands to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
Other countries, including Botswana, Ghana, Malawi and Nigeria, have also issued advisories.
– CAJ News