Xenophobic tensions in South Africa: Hate ignites, problems persist
via Lefaso.net5 min read
South Africa recently experienced a day of national shutdown, with police, the army, and private security forces mobilized to prevent violence and looting against migrants. The ANC government had allocated $36 million to intensify expulsion operations, aiming to preserve its public image. Organizers of "Operation Dudula" and March & March celebrated the closure of many shops and reduced traffic in major cities, viewing it as a success for their anti-migrant agenda. Since 2008, political entrepreneurs have scapegoated African migrants for South Africa's post-apartheid social issues, including unemployment, crime, rising prices, and housing shortages. This xenophobia, distinct from racism, targets individuals based on their origin rather than race. For the past four months, migrants in several provinces have faced harassment and death threats if they do not leave. Accusations against migrants include drug dealing, taking jobs from South Africans, and over-utilizing medical services. Approximately 25,000 migrants have recently left the country, with Ghana repatriating 300 citizens and planning for 800 more. Former President Thabo Mbeki questioned whether 300 new jobs were created after the Ghanaians' departure, highlighting the futility of such actions in solving real problems. Despite these campaigns, migrants constitute only 5-6% of South Africa's population 3 million out of 62 million, a proportion lower than in many less affluent African countries. The success of these xenop
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