By: Archie Boan
The African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP) has strongly condemned the recent wave of anti-immigration protests and violent attacks targeting African nationals in South Africa, calling for immediate intervention to halt the unrest.
In a statement issued Friday, the continental body described the attacks as a direct threat to African unity and a betrayal of the long-held principle of Ubuntu, as well as the aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063 the African Union’s blueprint for a prosperous and integrated continent.
ADAFP acknowledged underlying socio-economic challenges in South Africa, including rising youth unemployment, crime, and mounting pressure on public services. However, the organization rejected attempts to scapegoat foreign nationals engaged in legitimate businesses, describing such actions as “untenable and dangerous.”
Drawing lessons from history, ADAFP referenced past mass expulsions, including Ghana’s 1969 Aliens Compliance Order and Nigeria’s 1983 expulsion under former President Shehu Shagari, warning that such measures had devastating regional consequences.
The group called on South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his government to take decisive action by enforcing laws against those inciting violence and ensuring the protection of all residents, regardless of nationality.
“South Africa belongs to all who live in it, as enshrined in its Constitution,” the statement noted, urging authorities to uphold their duty to safeguard lives and property while addressing economic disparities fueling tensions.
ADAFP also emphasized the importance of enforcing immigration laws fairly and consistently, warning that failure to do so undermines public trust and encourages disorder. It stressed that lawful, humane, and transparent enforcement not vigilante violence is the appropriate response to migration challenges.
The organization further criticized political rhetoric that normalizes hostility toward migrants, urging leaders to focus instead on tackling corruption, inequality, and service delivery failures.
Calling for a broader continental solution, ADAFP urged African Union member states to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, particularly provisions related to free movement, visa policies, and economic integration.
It argued that stronger intra-African trade and legal migration pathways would reduce desperation and xenophobic tensions.
“Africa stands at a crossroads,” the statement concluded. “We cannot build the Africa we want if we allow present challenges to erode our shared future.”
The statement was signed by Eddie D. Jarwolo, Secretary General of ADAFP, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to promoting unity, lawful governance, and inclusive development across the continent.
