The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has strongly condemned the recent wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa, calling it a tragic betrayal of the nation's historic fight for freedom and justice.
WHO Chief Expresses Sorrow Over Attacks
In a statement posted on social media, Tedros expressed deep sadness over reports of renewed attacks targeting foreign nationals. The violence has reportedly left several people dead, displaced thousands of families, and forced many others to flee for safety.
“It is profoundly heartbreaking to witness another surge of xenophobic violence in South Africa this week,” he said.
According to Tedros, hundreds of people have marched on Parliament amid the unrest, while thousands of families have been displaced.
Recall of African Solidarity
The WHO chief recalled the support African nations provided to South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, emphasizing that the continent stood together against racial oppression. He highlighted Ethiopia's historical support for the late former South African President Nelson Mandela, noting that Ethiopia issued Mandela a passport in 1962 to enable him to travel across Africa during the liberation struggle. Several other African countries also provided political, diplomatic, and financial support to the anti-apartheid movement.
Tedros urged South Africans to address grievances through lawful channels rather than violence.
South African Consulate Reassures Nigerians
Meanwhile, the South African Consulate General in Lagos has reassured Nigerian travellers and investors that South Africa remains a safe and welcoming destination despite concerns arising from recent protests and reported incidents of violence involving foreign nationals.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Consulate General expressed concern over reports that some Nigerians had cancelled or revised their travel plans following media reports about unrest and attacks on foreign nationals. The consulate stressed that South Africa remains committed to the principles of constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and respect for the dignity and rights of all people.
The government unequivocally condemns all acts of intimidation, violence, discrimination, and unlawful conduct directed at any individual, including foreign nationals. While concerns about illegal immigration remain a legitimate public issue, such matters must be addressed through lawful state institutions and processes rather than by private individuals or groups. No citizen has the authority to take the law into their own hands.
