South Africa is preparing to send special envoys to other African countries and regions around the world in response to a recent wave of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the plan on Thursday, saying the move is intended to strengthen cooperation with partner countries and address the wider challenges linked to migration across the continent.
“There will be envoys, yes, people we will send not only across the continent but also around the world,” Ramaphosa said. He explained that the aim is to bring governments and key stakeholders together to find long-term solutions rather than reacting only when violence breaks out.
Tackling Migration Through Cooperation
Ramaphosa said South Africa cannot handle migration issues alone and needs stronger coordination with other nations. According to him, the envoys will engage governments, regional bodies, and international organisations to encourage shared approaches to migration management.
“We need key role players and countries to work together so that this issue is properly addressed,” he said.
The idea is to improve dialogue around border control, labour movement, and the protection of migrants, many of whom travel to South Africa in search of better economic opportunities.
Officials believe that better coordination could reduce misunderstandings and ease pressure in communities where tensions sometimes turn into violence.
Background: Recurrent Attacks on Foreign Nationals
South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the years, with foreign nationals—mostly from other African countries—often becoming targets during periods of economic stress.
Attacks have been reported in parts of Johannesburg, Durban, and other urban centres, where competition for jobs, housing, and small business opportunities is intense.
While the government has consistently condemned these incidents, human rights groups say the underlying causes—such as unemployment, inequality, and poor service delivery—continue to fuel resentment in some communities.
Ramaphosa Defends South Africans
The president pushed back against the idea that xenophobia defines the country, saying it does not reflect the true character of South Africans.
“As South Africa, we are addressing this matter,” he said. “South Africans are not xenophobic. South Africans are Africans. They want to live with other Africans peacefully.”
His comments reflect a broader effort by the government to reinforce South Africa’s image as a country committed to African unity and cooperation, despite the challenges on the ground.
A Call for Regional Responsibility
Ramaphosa also said migration was discussed in recent talks with other African leaders, including Kenya’s President William Ruto, highlighting that the issue is increasingly being seen as a regional concern rather than a purely domestic one.
Experts note that large-scale movement of people across African borders is driven by many factors, including conflict, unemployment, climate pressures, and economic inequality.
Because of this, South Africa’s approach is shifting toward working more closely with neighbouring states and continental institutions like the African Union.
Balancing Reality and Responsibility
South Africa remains one of the most attractive destinations for migrants on the continent due to its relatively strong economy. But this has also created pressure in lower-income communities where services and jobs are already stretched.
The government now faces a difficult balance: addressing legitimate frustrations within local communities while also protecting the rights and safety of foreign nationals.
The planned envoy missions are part of an effort to ease tensions through diplomacy and cooperation, rather than allowing recurring violence to define relations between South Africa and its neighbours.
While it is still unclear how quickly the initiative will deliver results, officials say it marks a renewed commitment to finding long-term, peaceful solutions to a problem that has persisted for years.
