Undocumented migrants across South Africa are living in fear as a June 30 deadline, set by anti-migrant protest groups, for them to leave the country rapidly approaches. Reports indicate a significant escalation in hostility and intimidation, particularly in regions such as KwaZulu-Natal, where thousands of foreign nationals have been displaced from their homes, seeking refuge in open fields.
Witness accounts describe harrowing experiences, with individuals reporting armed groups demanding their departure. One Malawian woman, Esnat Joseph, recounted to the BBC how a group of ten men, armed with machetes and whips, assaulted her husband and ordered her to leave her residence in Durban. She is now among an estimated 7,000 foreigners, predominantly Malawians, who have gathered in an open area, relying on aid organisations for basic necessities.
These incidents follow a series of protests throughout the year, spearheaded by groups such as March and March, and the opposition party ActionSA. Demonstrators, often chanting 'Mabahambe' (Zulu for 'They must go'), assert that their actions are not xenophobic but are aimed at upholding the country's immigration laws. They argue that South Africa should prioritise its own citizens amidst severe economic challenges.
The escalating tensions have prompted several African nations to arrange repatriation flights and bus services for their citizens. Malawi, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe have all been involved in these efforts, with approximately 3,500 foreign nationals having voluntarily departed in recent weeks. However, the exact legal status of many individuals remains unclear, often complicated by lost documentation.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly addressed the situation, cautioning against the 'scapegoating of vulnerable people'. He emphasised that such actions do not provide solutions to the nation's deep-seated economic difficulties. South Africa is grappling with one of the world's highest unemployment rates, currently standing at 32.7%, with significant job losses recorded in the first quarter of 2026, disproportionately affecting young people. The country's latest figures suggest it is home to over three million foreign nationals, making up about 5% of the population, with many more believed to be residing without official documentation.