The President of the Africa Development Studies Centre (ADSC), Sir Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, has called for urgent action by the South African government and the African Union over rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
Oluwafemi, an international development consultant and reputation architecture specialist, made the call in a statement issued on Monday, warning that continued silence over reported attacks and intimidation against African migrants could worsen the situation.
According to him, recent reports of xenophobic incidents and anti-migrant hostility in parts of South Africa have generated concern across Africa and within the international community.
“There has been a growing wave of concern across Africa and within the international community following recent reports of xenophobic incidents, intimidation, and anti-migrant hostility in parts of South Africa,” he said.
He noted that although South Africa has the right to manage its immigration system, reports of hostility allegedly carried out by non-state actors and disruptions to migrant-owned businesses raise serious concerns about the protection of human rights and public order.
“Silence in moments such as this is not neutral. Silence enables. Silence legitimises. Silence institutionalises,” Oluwafemi stated.
He warned that failure to respond decisively could create a perception that authorities are tolerating acts of intimidation and violence against foreign nationals.
“Where credible reports indicate intimidation by non-state actors and growing anti-immigrant sentiment, the absence of a firm and visible response risks creating a perception gap,” he added.
The ADSC president urged the South African government to strengthen the rule of law and ensure that immigration enforcement remains within lawful institutional frameworks.
He also called for decisive measures to prevent vigilantism and targeted hostility against African migrants living in the country.
“A clear and reassuring national position will be essential in reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to the safety and dignity of all African nationals within its borders,” he said.
Oluwafemi further called on the African Union to take a more proactive stance on xenophobia and migrant protection across the continent.
According to him, the principles of African integration, economic cooperation, and free movement can only thrive in an environment where citizens feel safe and protected.
He also urged African governments to strengthen diplomatic engagement aimed at protecting their citizens abroad while maintaining healthy bilateral relations.
Speaking on Nigeria’s role, Oluwafemi said the country should adopt a more strategic and preventive approach towards protecting its citizens outside the country.
“Nigeria, as a leading voice in Africa, has an opportunity to adopt a more strategic, forward-looking approach that goes beyond consular responses,” he said.
He added that influential public figures and cultural leaders across Africa also have a responsibility to promote unity and discourage divisive rhetoric during periods of tension.
Describing the situation as a test of Africa’s commitment to inclusion and mutual respect, Oluwafemi warned that failure to address rising xenophobic tensions could negatively affect investor confidence, regional cooperation, and continental integration efforts.
“Africa must continue to uphold its foundational values. Constructive dialogue, visible leadership, and coordinated action will be essential in addressing current concerns and preventing future escalation,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating his call for immediate action.
“Silence enables. Silence legitimises. Silence institutionalises. Africa must speak. South Africa must act.”
