Women farmers receive training on food sovereignty and climate resilience

Xenophobia poses a billion-dollar investment risk for Africa

Xenophobic violence in key economic hubs, particularly South Africa, threatens Africa's economic growth and foreign direct investment. Despite a 75% surge in FDI to a record US$97 billion in 2024, recurring xenophobic incidents deter investment, disrupt intra-regional trade, and strain diplomatic ties. Migrant entrepreneurs are significant contributors to South Africa's economy, with International Labour Organization data indicating they contribute approximately 9% to the GDP, and over a third of international migrant enterprises employ South African citizens. The African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA, projected to increase intra-African trade by 45% by 2045, relies on the free movement of labor and safeguarding cross-border investments. The economic cost of instability is substantial, with research showing high-intensity conflicts can lead to a cumulative loss in per capita GDP of approximately 20% over five years. Xenophobic attacks in 2019 led to diplomatic tensions and operational disruptions for South African corporations like MTN, Multichoice, and Shoprite in Nigeria. The business community's silence on xenophobia is a misjudgment, as it represents a systemic business risk affecting supply chains, consumer markets, and investor confidence. Addressing xenophobic violence is crucial for sustained economic development and regional competitiveness, and for securing the "peace dividend" of social stability and productive investment. The success of the AfCFTA is linked t