South Africa’s traditional leaders have sought to reassure Zimbabweans that recent anti-foreigner incidents do not represent the country’s people, government or traditional leadership, as they called for stronger regional cooperation to address migration challenges through dialogue rather than violence.
The message was delivered during a peace mission to Zimbabwe led by South Africa Kings Council Chairperson King Ndamase Ndamase, who said the delegation travelled to promote African unity and reinforce relations between neighbouring countries following renewed anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa.
The delegation also included Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, who met Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa during the visit as part of broader efforts to strengthen Pan-African solidarity.
Traditional leaders said the visit followed discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has repeatedly condemned xenophobic violence and emphasised the country’s commitment to human dignity and Ubuntu.
Traditional Leaders Reject Violence While Calling for Lawful Migration
Speaking to journalists in Harare, King Ndamase said South Africa’s traditional leadership rejects violence directed at foreign nationals and believes migration challenges should be managed within the framework of the law.
He acknowledged that concerns over undocumented migration exist in South Africa but stressed that these concerns should never be used to justify intimidation or attacks against foreign nationals.
According to King Ndamase, traditional leaders intend to work more closely with governments and community leaders across Africa to promote dialogue and strengthen regional cooperation.
He said African nations share common interests and should approach migration issues as partners rather than adversaries.
The delegation emphasised that a small number of individuals involved in anti-foreigner violence should not be viewed as representing the broader South African population.
Zimbabweans Continue to Feel the Impact
Zimbabweans remain one of the largest migrant communities living in South Africa and have frequently been among those most affected during previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
Major incidents in 2008, 2015 and 2019 resulted in deaths, displacement and the voluntary or assisted return of thousands of Zimbabwean nationals, while also creating diplomatic tensions within the Southern African region.
Although official figures relating to the latest anti-foreigner protests have not yet been released, the Zimbabwean government has indicated that it remains prepared to assist citizens who choose to return home.
King Ndamase called on African countries to strengthen cooperation and seek peaceful, long-term solutions to migration-related challenges instead of allowing violence to divide communities.
His remarks echo previous statements by President Ramaphosa, who has consistently described xenophobic violence as incompatible with South Africa’s constitutional values, Ubuntu and respect for human dignity.
President Mnangagwa has likewise said Zimbabwe stands ready to facilitate the return of any citizens who voluntarily decide to come home through government-supported repatriation programmes.
Source: Statements by the South Africa Kings Council, the Presidency of South Africa and the Government of Zimbabwe. (This article is based on official public remarks.)