IN CONVERSATION WITH CLAUDE KAYITARE, Head of Partnerships and Programs (SANIR)

Recent unrest in KuGompo, Buffalo City began as a protest but quickly escalated into violence, including the destruction of property and the targeted looting of businesses, particularly those owned by foreign nationals. Reports indicate assaults, intimidation, and the displacement of migrants, reflecting a recurring pattern of xenophobic violence in South Africa. The Southern Africa Network for Immigrants and Refugees has expressed deep concern over these events, highlighting the risks to refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants, many of whom are already in precarious living conditions. The destruction of livelihoods, loss of property, and threats to personal safety place affected individuals and families at immediate risk of further harm, displacement, and long- term trauma. SANIR calls on the Government of South Africa to ensure the immediate protection of all residents, regardless of nationality or legal status. Deploy adequate law enforcement to prevent further violence and restore order. Publicly condemn xenophobic violence and provide clear leadership. Investigate incidents thoroughly and hold perpetrators accountable. Provide emergency humanitarian assistance, including shelter, food, and medical support. Community leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society are urged to promote calm, reject misinformation, and address underlying tensions peacefully. 09:15 SANIR commits to monitoring the situation and documenting human rights violations. Providing support to affected migrants and refugees. Engaging stakeholders in dialogue to prevent further escalation. SANIR emphasizes that South Africa’s constitutional values of dignity, equality, and human rights must guide the collective response, and calls on all stakeholders to act decisively to prevent further violence and uphold justice, inclusion, and social cohesion. Instagram · Twitter