Kenya and Nigeria raise alarm over safety

Kenya and Nigeria have called for stronger protection for their citizens in South Africa after a recent wave of protests targeting undocumented migrants. The diplomatic concern follows marches in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Gauteng, where demonstrators demanded tighter immigration controls, stricter visa rules and a review of asylum policies.

The protests have added to growing tension around migration in South Africa, with some foreign nationals pushing back against the messaging around the marches. According to the source material, some have described the issues raised by protesters as misleading and designed to inflame public anger.

Nigeria accuses Pretoria of not doing enough

Nigeria has taken the strongest line so far. Its government says South Africa has not done enough to stop what it describes as threats and harassment against migrants. In response, officials in Abuja are now organising emergency repatriation flights for at least 130 Nigerian citizens.

Nigerian authorities say both documented and undocumented citizens living in South Africa have cited safety concerns as the reason for wanting to return home. That move signals how quickly street-level unrest can spill into diplomatic and humanitarian pressure.

Nigeria has also called for impartial investigations into the deaths of at least two Nigerians who allegedly died in separate incidents involving South African security personnel last month. That demand raises the stakes further, because it shifts the focus from public protest alone to the conduct of state authorities.

Kenya urges citizens to stay documented and alert

Kenya has also responded, though with a more precautionary tone. Its government has advised citizens in South Africa to carry valid identification and all relevant documents at all times. It has also urged them to report threats to the police and contact the High Commission in Pretoria for help where needed.

That guidance reflects growing concern that ordinary foreign nationals may be left vulnerable during periods of anti-migrant mobilisation, regardless of their legal status. For many people living and working in South Africa, simply moving through public spaces can become more risky when tensions flare.

Migration tension now has diplomatic consequences

What began as a local protest action is now feeding into international pressure on Pretoria. South Africa’s immigration debate has long been politically charged, but the latest protests are forcing neighbouring and regional governments to respond publicly in defence of their citizens.

For now, Kenya and Nigeria are sending the same broad message: South Africa must protect foreign nationals on its soil. Whether Pretoria can calm tensions and reassure both migrants and foreign governments may shape not only domestic stability but also South Africa’s standing across the continent.