The Surge of Anti-Migrant Protests in South Africa's Major Cities

South Africa has witnessed a sharp escalation in public demonstrations against undocumented immigration, with thousands taking to the streets in Johannesburg and Pretoria over the past week. These events, organized primarily by the grassroots March and March movement, highlight deep-seated frustrations among locals over job scarcity, rising crime rates, and strained public services. On April 28, 2026, hundreds gathered in Pretoria's Burgers Park before marching toward the iconic Union Buildings, the seat of government. The following day, similar scenes unfolded in Johannesburg's central business district, where protesters voiced their grievances amid a heavy police presence.

The protests come at a time when South Africa's economy grapples with persistent challenges, including an unemployment rate hovering around 31.4 percent in late 2025, the lowest in five years but still among the highest globally. Demonstrators argue that undocumented immigrants exacerbate these issues by competing for limited employment opportunities and overburdening social systems. While the marches remained largely peaceful, the atmosphere was tense, reflecting broader societal divisions.

Details of the Pretoria March: Chants and Memorandums

In Pretoria, the capital city, the March and March movement led approximately 300 protesters from Burgers Park to the Union Buildings. Participants carried handmade placards and wore T-shirts emblazoned with slogans decrying illegal immigration. Chants echoed through the streets, demanding immediate deportations and stricter border controls. The group submitted a memorandum to government offices, outlining their key concerns and calling for urgent reforms at the Department of Home Affairs.

Leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma emphasized the need for accountability, criticizing political leaders for inaction. 'We are grateful that groups like ours have risen to voice what many have long preached—illegal immigration is a major societal problem,' one demonstrator told reporters. Police maintained order with barriers, preventing any escalation, though the event underscored growing anti-foreigner sentiment ahead of local elections.

Johannesburg CBD Shutdown: Shops Close in Anticipation

Johannesburg's protests drew hundreds from Mary Fitzgerald Square to Beyers Naude Square, paralyzing parts of the central business district. Many shops owned by foreign nationals preemptively shuttered, fearing looting or vandalism based on past incidents. Owners from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Zimbabwe heeded advisories from their diplomatic missions and community leaders to stay indoors and avoid confrontation.

The closures highlighted the economic ripple effects, as daily commerce ground to a halt. A Nigerian shopkeeper lamented, 'We are brothers as black Africans, coming here just to survive,' while a security guard added, 'It's scary to feel unsafe on our continent.' Despite threats from some marchers, no widespread looting occurred, thanks to robust policing.

Core Demands from Protesters: Deportations and Policy Overhaul

At the heart of these anti-migrant protests lie specific demands: mass deportations of undocumented individuals, biometric systems for public services, and penalties for businesses hiring irregular migrants. Protesters blame foreigners for drug trafficking, unemployment, and clinic overcrowding. One unemployed teacher called for the removal of foreign educators, insisting teaching is not a scarce skill.

The March and March movement, which emerged in KwaZulu-Natal in 2025, has met with officials from education and health departments, pushing for prioritization of South African citizens. Their rhetoric often blurs legal and undocumented migrants, fueling debates on immigration enforcement.

Migrant Communities on High Alert: Vigilance Advisories

African migrant associations issued urgent warnings. The Nigerian Union in South Africa advised members to close businesses and remain indoors, citing harassment risks. Ghana's high commission echoed this, urging low profiles. Reports of profiling Nigerians regardless of status have intensified fears, with leaders noting, 'As long as you are Nigerian, you are stereotyped.'

These communities contribute significantly to the economy through small businesses, yet face scapegoating amid economic woes. Historical solidarity during apartheid is invoked to appeal for restraint.

Photo by Eric Daoust on Unsplash

Government Stance: Enforcement Without Hatred

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his Freedom Day address on April 27, 2026, declared South Africa 'not a country of hate' while acknowledging migration pressures. He urged legal enforcement without vigilantism, recalling African support against apartheid. Home Affairs reports deporting nearly 110,000 since the Government of National Unity formed, with claims of over 600,000 total.

Police deployed rubber bullets and tear gas in past events but focused on de-escalation here. Recent directives and a revised White Paper on immigration signal policy shifts toward digital borders and safe country principles for asylum.

UN Condemnation and Global Scrutiny

UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced deep concern over xenophobic attacks, stating, 'Violence, vigilantism, and incitement to hatred have no place in a democratic society.' He highlighted apartheid-era solidarity. Rights groups like Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia warn of fascist undertones in populist rhetoric.

International media coverage risks backlash against South African firms abroad. The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights also urged protection for other African nationals.

A Troubled History: Xenophobia's Recurring Waves

South Africa's xenophobic violence dates to post-apartheid eras. In 2008, attacks killed 62, displacing thousands, targeting Somalis and Zimbabweans. 2015 saw Durban riots after Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini's remarks, spreading nationwide. Recent flares in KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape mirror patterns tied to economic downturns.

Xenowatch recorded 529 incidents by 2018. Courts have banned groups like Operation Dudula from intimidation, yet enforcement lags.

Economic Drivers: Jobs, Crime, and Services Strain

• Unemployment at 31.4-33%, youth higher, fueling job competition fears.
• Protesters link migrants to crime spikes, nyaope drugs, though data mixed.
• 2.4 million migrants (4% population), mostly neighbors; small businesses vital but resented.
• Studies show perceived threats drive sentiment; 73% distrust African immigrants (2025).

Experts like Prof. Loren Landau call it a 'tinderbox,' distracting from corruption.

Path Forward: Balanced Immigration Reforms

Solutions include robust border tech, skills-based visas, public education on migrant contributions, and job creation. The 2026 White Paper proposes digital visas, naturalization after five years' residency. Community dialogues and anti-hate laws enforcement are crucial.

Stakeholders advocate addressing root causes: inequality, skills mismatches. International partnerships could aid managed migration.

Photo by Andrew Vickers on Unsplash

Election Shadow: Populism on the Rise

With local polls looming (Nov 2026-Jan 2027), anti-migrant platforms gain traction. ActionSA's Herman Mashaba joined marches, decrying 'disrespect.' Experts warn electing on hate risks unqualified leaders doubling down on failed policies.

South Africa must navigate this without fracturing its rainbow nation fabric.