The South African government has strongly condemned the circulation of what it described as “fake videos and images” allegedly showing xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in the country.
The controversy comes amid growing diplomatic tension between South Africa and several African nations over concerns that anti-immigrant sentiment and xenophobic violence may be increasing once again.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting on Thursday, South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the misleading footage was being used to damage the country’s international image.
“The fake videos and images are not only fake, but they are intended to undermine the good reputation of South Africa internationally and undermine the country’s pursuit of a better Africa agenda,” she told reporters.
The situation escalated after multiple video clips circulated online over the past two weeks, appearing to show vigilante groups confronting individuals suspected of living illegally in South Africa. One widely shared clip allegedly showed a Ghanaian national being told to “fix his country” and leave South Africa.
Several African governments have since raised concerns over the reports.
Ghana has formally written to the African Union requesting discussions on what it described as a “serious risk to the safety and wellbeing” of Africans living in South Africa. Ghana is also calling for a fact-finding mission to investigate the situation.
Nigeria has similarly expressed concern and offered to repatriate its citizens if necessary. Meanwhile, Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe have advised their citizens in South Africa to remain cautious.
Thousands of South Africans have recently taken part in demonstrations against illegal immigration in major cities, demanding tougher immigration enforcement and mass deportations of undocumented migrants.
Protesters argue that illegal immigration contributes to unemployment, housing shortages, and rising crime levels.
While defending citizens’ right to protest, Ntshavheni stressed that violence would not be tolerated. She also insisted there had been “no xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” attributing incidents involving foreigners instead to ordinary criminal activity.
South Africa has a long history of xenophobic tensions, with previous outbreaks of violence resulting in deaths, looting, and attacks on foreign-owned businesses. However, officials say the current demonstrations have largely remained peaceful.
Presidential spokespersons for Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated that South Africa remains a welcoming nation.
“South Africans are an open, friendly and warm people,” the presidency said, rejecting claims that the country or its citizens are broadly xenophobic.
The South African government continues diplomatic engagements with African nations in an effort to calm tensions and reassure neighboring countries over the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.