Migrants Flee Homes in South Africa Due to Rising Violence
This recent wave of xenophobic protests has sometimes turned deadly. Mozambique's government reported the tragic deaths of five of its citizens in Mossel Bay over the weekend.
In the picturesque coastal town of Kleinmond, South Africa, the serenity was shattered four days ago when Mozambican immigrant Lado Amido opened his door to confront an intimidating crowd. Demanding that foreigners leave, the group moved assertively through the area, delivering this ominous message house by house.
Fearing for his life, Amido sought refuge in the mountains, enduring two harrowing nights before finding temporary shelter in a local town hall. He now shares this sanctuary with fellow migrants from Malawi and Mozambique, all fleeing a surge of anti-immigrant violence that has plagued several towns across South Africa’s Western Cape province.
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This recent wave of xenophobic protests has sometimes turned deadly. Mozambique’s government reported the tragic deaths of five of its citizens in Mossel Bay over the weekend.
Members of civil society groups and human rights organizations hold placards as they participate in a march calling for stronger government action against illegal immigration, Pretoria, South Africa, April 28, 2026. (Reuters Photo)
Residing in Kleinmond, roughly 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the epicenter of some violence, Amido recounted his ordeal: “On the 31st, people came to my house, knocked on the door, and took all my belongings,” the 49-year-old shared. Seeking work, he has been in South Africa since February.
Now residing in Kleinmond’s town hall are approximately 100 immigrants, many contemplating voluntary repatriation programs offered by their home countries.
Immigrants Held Responsible for Economic Problems
South Africa’s struggle with xenophobia is entrenched, with immigrants frequently scapegoated for issues like high unemployment and crime. Despite a lack of evidence, these beliefs are often amplified by politicians seeking populist favor, especially with local elections on the horizon.
“As we strive for a secure and prosperous society, we must tackle migration challenges,” President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed Parliament on Tuesday, simultaneously denouncing recent xenophobic incidents.
Kleinmond ward councillor Grant Cohen noted recent visits by immigration authorities, inspecting businesses for undocumented workers. However, many immigrants in the town hall possess legal status, he informed Reuters.
“We have children here who should be attending school, but fear has driven them to consider leaving the country,” Cohen explained.
A migrant child plays with her toy while sheltering in a hall with her family, following an escalation in anti-immigrant protests that heightened fears among foreign communities, Kleinmond, South Africa, June 3, 2026. (Reuters Photo)
“I urge residents not to take law enforcement into their own hands,” he added.
Protesters Armed with Knives and Sticks
Michael Markson, a 31-year-old Malawian, recounted his escape after hearing threatening warnings from his landlord in the informal settlement where he had lived for a year. “My landlord told me I should leave because they would kill us if found,” he recalled.
In hiding, Markson’s boss delivered food to him in the woods. From his vantage point, he saw protesters brandishing knives and sticks swarming the town.
Markson now anxiously awaits assistance to return home, a financially unattainable journey. “Though our country’s economy is struggling, it’s preferable to living under constant threat,” he stated.
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