Kenyan Embassy Advises Nationals to Stay Alert as South African Protests Escalate

Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria has issued a security advisory urging Kenyans in South Africa to remain vigilant following renewed xenophobic violence.

On 4 May, the mission advised citizens to avoid areas affected by protests, carry valid identification at all times, and report any incidents to the South African Police Service and the High Commission. It said the measures are necessary due to rising security risks in several cities.

Violence that began in late April has been reported in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and parts of the Eastern Cape. Armed groups have looted and destroyed businesses owned by foreign nationals, leading to displacement in some cases. Those affected include citizens from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho and Kenya, with growing concern among Kenyan communities.

The unrest has been linked to groups such as Operation Dudula, which have held demonstrations calling for the removal of foreign nationals. The groups have blamed migrants for unemployment, crime and drug-related problems. Political rhetoric surrounding these issues has also contributed to heightened tensions.

The situation has prompted responses from the international community. UN Secretary-General António Guterres referred to historical solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle and warned that xenophobic violence undermines those principles. Nigeria has begun evacuating its citizens, while Ghana and Zimbabwe have called for stronger protection of migrants. 

Amnesty International has said the unrest poses a risk to regional integration and South Africa’s international standing.