A report by The Africa Report examines the rise of xenophobic sentiment and violence in South Africa as the country approaches local elections scheduled for November 2026.South Africa remains one of Africa’s most industrialised economies and has long attracted migrants from across the continent.According to figures cited in the article, the country hosted around 2.4 million immigrants in 2022 within a population of approximately 63 million people.

Migration into South Africa has historical roots dating back to the apartheid era, when workers from neighbouring countries were recruited as low-cost labour for mines and farms.

Following the democratic transition in 1994, migrant workers increasingly found employment in sectors such as hospitality, security, transport and other service industries.

The article argues that growing hostility toward foreign nationals is being fuelled by economic frustrations, declining public services and persistent unemployment.

Rather than addressing structural economic problems and the deterioration of public utilities, some political leaders are accused of blaming migrants for social and economic difficulties.The report suggests that this approach risks deepening social divisions while failing to resolve the underlying causes of public dissatisfaction.

As election campaigning intensifies, anti-immigrant rhetoric has become more visible, raising concerns about further violence and discrimination against foreign communities.

The article presents xenophobia not simply as a migration issue but as a reflection of broader economic and governance challenges facing South Africa, highlighting the gap between the country's democratic and economic aspirations and the realities experienced by many citizens.