Expert Demands Urgent Continental Action Against Xenophobia

President of the Africa Development Studies Centre (ADSC), Dr Victor Oluwafemi, has called for urgent continental action to curb rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa.

In a statement on Monday, Oluwafemi expressed concern about anti-migrant hostility in parts of South Africa.

Oluwafemi, an International Development Consultant and a Reputation Architecture Specialist, cautioned African stakeholders against silence at such moments.

According to him, silence in moments such as this is not neutrality, as it enables, legitimises and institutionalises xenophobia in South Africa.

He said that, though South Africa retained the sovereign responsibility to manage its immigration systems, emerging patterns of hostility attributed to non-state actors raised questions on enforcement boundaries, public order, and fundamental rights.

“Where credible reports indicate intimidation by non-state actors and growing anti-immigrant sentiment, the absence of a firm and visible response risks creating a perception gap.

“Such a gap, if left unaddressed, could erode confidence among African communities and undermine broader continental efforts towards integration and cooperation.

“The Government of South Africa is therefore encouraged to act with urgency and clarity by reinforcing the rule of law, ensuring that immigration enforcement remains within lawful institutional frameworks, and taking decisive steps to prevent vigilantism or targeted hostility,” he said.

The expert said that a clear, reassuring national position will be essential to reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to the safety and dignity of all African nationals within its borders.

According to him, at the continental level, the African Union is expected to play a more proactive role in addressing concerns related to xenophobia and migrant protection.

He said that principles underpinning African integration, including economic cooperation and mobility, required a stable and secure environment for all citizens across the continent.

“African governments, more broadly, may also consider coordinated diplomatic engagement to ensure that the rights and safety of their citizens abroad are upheld while maintaining constructive bilateral relations,” he said.

Oluwafemi said that Nigeria, as a leading voice in Africa, has an opportunity to adopt a more strategic, forward-looking approach that goes beyond consular responses, focusing on sustained engagement, citizen protection, and long-term preventive measures.

He tasked influential voices across the continent, public figures and cultural leaders with wide-reaching platforms on significant contributions to shape public discourse.

Oluwafemi said that inaction amid rising tensions risked affecting investor confidence, regional cooperation, and the credibility of continental frameworks designed to advance integration and shared prosperity.

According to him, Africa must continue to uphold its foundational values of constructive dialogue, visible leadership, and coordinated action, which are essential to addressing current concerns and preventing future escalation.