WAJESHA Condemns Rising Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

The West African Journalists for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (WAJESHA) has condemned the increasing cases of xenophobic attacks targeting Africans living in South Africa, describing the situation as alarming and unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Editor-in-Chief, Aminu Adamu Ahmed, the organisation called for urgent and decisive action to end the violence.

“These attacks are wrong. They are cruel. And they have no place on this continent,” the statement said.

WAJESHA noted that Africa continues to grapple with pressing challenges, including poverty, disease, climate change, food insecurity, and political instability, warning that violence against fellow Africans only deepens these issues.

The group stressed that victims of the attacks are not outsiders but fellow Africans who share “the same blood, history of struggle, and hopes for a better future.”

It also expressed concern over the psychological toll on victims, highlighting the lasting impact of fear, trauma, displacement, and loss.

“We are deeply troubled by the mental and psychological damage these attacks are inflicting on victims,” the statement added.

WAJESHA further warned that the violence could strain diplomatic relations among African countries, as well as disrupt trade and regional cooperation.

Describing xenophobia as a betrayal of Pan-African ideals, the organisation said such acts undermine the vision of unity long championed by African leaders.

“Every act of xenophobic violence spits on that legacy,” the group stated.

The organisation called on the government of South Africa to take immediate steps to halt the attacks and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

“We urge South African authorities to deploy every available resource to stop the violence,” it said.

WAJESHA also advocated for a nationwide campaign promoting tolerance, dignity, and respect for all Africans living in the country.

It further appealed to civil society organisations, religious leaders, the media, and citizens to speak out and take a firm stand against xenophobia.