Over 160,000 Foreigners Leave South Africa

More than 160,000 foreign nationals have left South Africa over the past two months following a surge in anti-migrant unrest, according to an AFP tally based on figures released by governments repatriating their citizens. The departures followed weeks of demonstrations in which anti-immigration groups demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30.

Zimbabwe recorded the largest number of returnees, with 108,366 citizens repatriated by July 18, most of them returning voluntarily. Malawi said 46,890 of its nationals had returned since early June, with the government deploying nearly 700 buses to support the evacuation. Mozambique confirmed that almost 2,000 citizens had returned, while Nigeria repatriated about 1,490 people and Ghana evacuated at least 926 nationals. Smaller numbers also returned to Kenya, Lesotho and Uganda.

The unrest has also resulted in fatalities, further straining diplomatic relations within the region. Mozambican authorities confirmed the deaths of two of their citizens, while South African officials reported that an Ethiopian and a Malawian also died in incidents linked to anti-foreigner violence. Nigeria and Ghana have called for the issue of what they describe as “Afrophobia” to be discussed at the next African Union summit, while Ghana has postponed a planned bilateral meeting with South Africa.

South Africa has long been a destination for migrant workers from across the continent, but anti-migrant groups argue that undocumented foreigners contribute to unemployment and crime. Human rights organisations dispute those claims, saying migrants are being blamed for broader economic challenges. South African authorities continue to respond to the unrest, while repatriation efforts remain ongoing.

SOURCE: AFP