Demonstrators carry placards calling for stricter action against illegal immigration during a march in Johannesburg.
Image: Simon Majadibodu/IOL
The Kenya High Commission in Pretoria has advised Kenyan nationals living in South Africa to exercise caution following reports of demonstrations and isolated incidents affecting foreign nationals.
In an advisory note, the High Commission said: “Kenyan nationals are urged to avoid, as far as possible, areas where protests or demonstrations may be taking place, and to remain attentive to guidance issued by local authorities. They are further encouraged to carry valid identification and relevant documentation at all times.”
Amid reports of anti-foreigner violence, Kenyan nationals are urged to stay away from protests, carry identification, and report emergencies. Nigeria has confirmed 130 citizens wish to return home.
Image: Supplied
The High Commission also urged nationals to report any incidents to the South African Police Service and inform the High Commission for assistance. It remains available through its offices.
Meanwhile, Nigeria is planning a “voluntary repatriation” of citizens in South Africa amid fears that anti-immigrant attacks could increase. Nigerian Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said on Sunday that 130 people had already indicated a desire to return home.
“This figure is expected to rise. Nigerian lives and businesses in SA must not continue to be put at risk,” she said in a statement on social media.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that at least two Nigerians, Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel and Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, died in separate incidents involving South African security personnel last month.
South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said in talks with Odumegwu-Ojukwu that both countries had agreed to deepen cooperation. “We reflected on the challenges posed by irregular migration and committed to working to address the root causes, find common and sustainable solutions to this shared concern,” Lamola said.
The acting South African high commissioner in Abuja is scheduled to meet Nigerian officials to discuss “documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses,” according to foreign ministry spokesman Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also alleged that a “repetitive wave” of a “xenophobic pattern” flares up especially prior to elections in South Africa, and anti-foreigner opposition parties leverage this situation to garner votes.” South Africa is set to hold municipal elections on November 4.
South Africa’s acting police minister, Firoz Cachalia, condemned anti-immigrant violence last week, saying: “Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”