Diplomatic pressure is mounting on South Africa as several African nations react to renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians.
Nigeria and Ghana are leading the diplomatic response.
Nigeria summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner, demanding urgent protection for its citizens while arranging voluntary repatriation flights. As of May 3, about 130 Nigerians had already registered for evacuation.
Abuja also reminded Pretoria of Nigeria’s sacrifices during the anti-apartheid struggle, warning that “Nigerian lives and businesses must not continue to be put at risk.”
According to reports, Tanzania issued a 48-hour ultimatum for South African citizens to leave or face deportation, while suspending air and maritime trade.
Botswana is reportedly considering sealing its land border and cutting electricity supply, while Mozambique is mulling restrictions at the key Ressano Garcia border crossing.
Neighbouring Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are also said to be on high alert as tensions continue to escalate across the region.
