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More than 160,000 foreign nationals have left South Africa over the past two months amid a surge in anti-migrant protests, attacks on foreigners, and growing insecurity, according to an analysis of repatriation data released by governments and reported by AFP on Tuesday (July 21).
The report said escalating violence, intimidation, and anti-immigration movements prompted several African countries to urgently repatriate their citizens. As a result, tens of thousands of migrants have either returned home voluntarily or with government assistance.
Data show that the highest number of returnees were from Zimbabwe and Malawi. Zimbabwe alone reported that more than 60,000 of its citizens have returned home, while Malawi said over 38,000 nationals have left South Africa.
In addition, the government of Nigeria arranged the return of around 1,500 citizens through special measures. Uganda reported 939 returnees, Kenya 431, and the Republic of the Congo 86.
Citizens from Mozambique, Ghana, Lesotho, Zambia and Ethiopia have also returned, although full figures have not yet been disclosed.
Analysts say rising unemployment, economic hardship, and tensions over irregular migration have fueled renewed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa. As a result, not only undocumented migrants but also many legally residing foreigners are facing growing insecurity.
Many have shut down businesses or chosen to leave voluntarily amid fears for their safety.
Human rights organisations have urged the South African government to take effective steps to ensure the safety of foreign nationals and to act swiftly to curb anti-migrant violence through legal measures.
