I’ve just finished watching this BBC report, and it really broke my heart. I wish our African leaders would sit down and resolve these issues diplomatically. I also wish our leaders would take the time to fully understand what is actually happening on the ground before reacting.
I do not think it is fair to suggest that the South African government has remained silent or failed to condemn the actions of the small number of individuals who have harassed or intimidated people. There is often much more happening behind the scenes than what appears in media reports.
I therefore appeal to African governments to engage through their embassies, diplomatic channels, and direct communication with Pretoria. We must be careful not to make decisions based purely on emotions or media headlines in ways that could undermine African unity.
I live in South Africa, and my experience is that news coverage can sometimes create the impression that a situation is far bigger or more widespread than it actually is.
That is why, some months ago, I cautioned the South African media against giving excessive airtime to fringe groups whose actions tarnish the image of South Africa both continentally and internationally.
As journalists, we have a responsibility to report the news accurately, but we must also be careful not to amplify individuals who are deliberately performing for the cameras or seeking publicity through inflammatory statements and actions.
My plea is simple, let African leaders engage one another calmly, honestly, and diplomatically. Africa’s challenges will not be solved through megaphone diplomacy or emotional reactions.
They will be solved through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to preserving the unity of our continent.
There are people who are benefiting from what is going on, and I have no doubt that some of them will sleep very well tonight after watching this report.
Let us be honest, South Africa has an immigration crisis, and pretending otherwise helps no one. It is a real issue that cannot simply be swept under the carpet. However, we must also be honest about a second reality, there are elements within South African society that are exploiting this immigration crisis, as well as the country’s economic challenges and unemployment, for political and populist purposes.
What should be a serious discussion about immigration policy, border management, economic growth, and job creation is, in some instances, being turned into a vehicle for political mobilisation and the pursuit of narrow agendas.
That is why I appeal to African governments to look beyond the headlines and seek to understand what is happening in the background. There are forces taking advantage of a genuine problem and manipulating public frustration for their own ends.
As Africans, we have a responsibility to approach these issues with honesty and maturity. The first step is to acknowledge that South Africa has an immigration challenge. The second is to recognise that some political and social actors are exploiting that challenge for reasons that have little to do with finding real solutions.
If we fail to understand both realities at the same time, we risk misdiagnosing the problem and deepening divisions at a time when Africa needs unity, dialogue, and practical solutions.