Anti-immigration sentiments have reached new heights in South Africa, where thousands have taken to the streets of Johannesburg to demand that foreigners from other African nations leave the country. The march comes after three foreign shop owners were shot dead in Johannesburg in what is believed to be a xenophobic attack.
Rising Tensions in South Africa
For weeks, South Africa has seen an increase in anti-immigration agitations targeting people from other African countries. The movement, now swelling in numbers, claims they want to take back their country from foreigners who are 'engaging in crime' and 'taking their jobs.' On April 29, 2026, the most shocking sight in Johannesburg unfolded as thousands armed with sticks and some dressed in traditional garb marched to demand that foreigners leave the country.
Targeting African Immigrants
Social media has been filled with clips of anti-immigration groups targeting African immigrants, whom they accuse of engaging in crimes and stealing jobs. While leaders like Operation Dudula and Jacinta Ngobese claim to focus on illegal immigrants, clips show several legal Africans being harassed. In one video, a Ghanaian man was harassed and told to leave despite presenting legal papers. Another showed a Nigerian trader ordered to close his shop despite living legally in South Africa for 20 years and having children with his late South African wife.
Nigerians as Major Targets
Nigerians have been a major target of the protesters, who accuse them of crimes, seeking to dominate their host, and sleeping with their women. In March 2026, Nigerian-owned businesses were targeted in violent protests following the alleged coronation of the Igbo King in the Eastern Cape province. In a recent viral clip, a group of women demanded that South African women married to Nigerians leave the country with their husbands and children. Fear of protests turning violent has increased as two Nigerians were killed last week in the country.
President Cyril Ramaphosa's Response
Reacting to the situation, President Cyril Ramaphosa told foreigners to respect the country and its laws while admonishing citizens not to take the law into their own hands. His admonition has fallen on deaf ears, as anti-immigration protesters continue to storm the streets and target African migrants. The latest protest shows a sustained effort by agitators who claim to be staging an attempt to reclaim their country.
