Following days of xenophobic violence in KwaZulu-Natal, foreign business owners in the Johannesburg CBD on 15 April fell victim to widespread attacks.
As a result, people against these malicious acts are taking action. Northcliff resident and singer Daniel Baron has voice out his concerns about the xenophobic attacks.
“I feel very sad that human beings are brutally attacking other human beings. There is no excuse or valid reason to commit violence like this,” said Baron.
“I think that right now there should be more protection enforced by greater numbers of SA police officers. I think that we need to stand as one, and create awareness through public gatherings and in displays spreading the message that xenophobic attacks are wrong – we can only pray that this violence will stop.
Ignite Africa’s Martin Mushamiri from Randburg said he is alarmed by the attacks.
“We are not serving the country by fighting against, maiming and killing foreign residents. If we desire a society of peace, we cannot achieve one through violence,”
“Violence does not build a nation as it often brings an end to what it seeks to create and its solutions are shortlived. Social justice cannot be attained through violence, said Mushamiri.
Zimbabwe’s Nyasha Bhero from Uinversity of Johannesburg’s international office said he sees xenophobia as terrorism in another form.
“I see no difference with Boko Haram, Al Shabab, where mobs gather and attack innocent people,” Bhero said.
“I think the education curriculum should add more African history and pupils would know more on migration and the African journey from pre-colonial era to post. Same goes to national television, there is more entertainment than educational programmes unless you have DSTV.”
DA Gauteng Provincial chairperson Solly Msimanga said more should be done to stop the attacks.
“South Africa prides itself on a Constitution founded on a shared respect for the human rights of all persons, and it is up to each and every one of us to strongly condemn acts of violence against our fellow humans simply because of their origin,”
“It is the duty of every South African to stand up against xenophobia, and build a South Africa where everyone feels safe and at home,” Msimanga said.
