An Open Call to the African Union: Condemn Xenophobic Violence in South Africa
In the wake of recurring attacks against Ethiopian nationals and other African migrants in South Africa, a growing coalition of concerned citizens and advocacy groups has issued an urgent appeal to the African Union (AU). The open letter, addressed to the AU Chairperson and esteemed members, demands immediate, decisive action to halt the cycle of xenophobic violence—a growing wound on the continent’s collective conscience.
A Crisis of Solidarity
The letter paints a stark picture of daily reality for many African migrants in South Africa. Despite contributing to local economies through small enterprises, employment, and cross-border trade, Ethiopian and other African nationals face systematic harassment, violent physical assaults, looting of their businesses, and, in tragic cases, death.
“The normalization of such violence risks eroding trust among African nations and weakens our collective identity,” the letter states, reminding readers that the victims are not abstract figures but hardworking individuals supporting families both within South Africa and across national borders.
Understanding the Complexity, Rejecting the Excuse
The signatories acknowledge the difficult socio-economic landscape within South Africa, including persistent unemployment, deep inequality, and social tensions. However, the letter draws a firm line: these challenges cannot and must not justify violence against fellow Africans.
“Xenophobia is not a solution—it is a dangerous diversion that deepens division and suffering,” the authors assert, rejecting any framing that would excuse discrimination as a byproduct of economic stress.
Five Demands for Continental Action
The letter argues that silence or delayed response from the AU would be interpreted as indifference. Therefore, it presents five concrete requests:
- Unequivocal Condemnation – A public statement from the African Union condemning all forms of xenophobic violence in South Africa and elsewhere on the continent.
- Diplomatic Engagement – Direct engagement with the South African government to ensure the protection of all African nationals, including swift legal prosecution of perpetrators.
- Humanitarian Support – Coordinated assistance for affected communities, including Ethiopian nationals and other migrants, through diplomatic and humanitarian channels.
- Pan-African Re-Education – Continental dialogue and awareness campaigns to reinforce mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and the core values of Pan-Africanism.
- Prevention Mechanisms – Strengthened early warning and rapid response systems to prevent future outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
“No African Is a Stranger in Africa”
The letter closes with a powerful appeal to the AU’s foundational principles. It reminds the Union that Africa’s true strength has always been its unity—a bond forged from shared history, common struggles, and collective aspirations.
“When one group of Africans is targeted simply for being ‘foreign’ within Africa, we all suffer a collective setback,” the letter warns.
The authors urge the African Union to lead with clarity and conviction, transforming its charter commitments into living reality. “Let this be a moment where the continent reaffirms that no African is a stranger in Africa.”
About the Initiative
This open letter represents a unified voice from civil society organizations, diaspora networks, and concerned citizens who believe in a borderless vision of African solidarity.
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