RismadarVoice Reporters
October 13, 2026
South Africa has reported the arrest of 364 people in connection with attacks on African migrants, while rejecting claims that the country is inherently xenophobic.
The country’s Acting Consul-General in Lagos, Kgothatso Xulu, disclosed this during the 47th annual conference of the Nigerian Society of International Law (NSIL), held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking at the conference, themed “From Obligation to Implementation: Reassessing the Efficacy of International Law in Contemporary International Relations,” Xulu acknowledged concerns over attacks on foreign nationals but maintained that the actions of individuals should not define South Africa as a nation.
She said the South African government condemned violence against migrants and was taking measures to address the problem.
Xulu cited the arrest of 364 individuals as evidence of enforcement efforts, although she did not provide details of the incidents involved, the dates of the arrests or the status of the cases.
The diplomat argued that isolated acts of violence should not overshadow South Africa’s broader commitment to African unity, cooperation and the protection of human rights.
She also acknowledged challenges associated with irregular migration and pressure on public services, stressing the need for African governments to address the economic conditions that compel citizens to seek opportunities abroad.
According to her, greater economic integration would help shift migration patterns from movements driven primarily by hardship towards opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship and regional trade.
Xulu identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as an important framework for strengthening economic relationships and expanding commercial opportunities across the continent.
She maintained that African countries should prioritise the creation of competitive economies capable of supporting businesses and generating employment.
The diplomat also defended South Africa’s constitutional protection of peaceful demonstrations, explaining that public protests had played a significant role in the country’s struggle against apartheid.
She said peaceful assembly remained a constitutional right, with established procedures governing demonstrations and police responsibilities for maintaining public safety.
However, she argued that protests should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of widespread hostility towards foreign nationals.
Xulu further expressed concern about misinformation and the generalisation of violent incidents, warning that misleading narratives could damage relations between African countries.
She recalled the support South Africa received from other African nations during the anti-apartheid struggle, describing continental solidarity as an important part of the country’s history.
The diplomat called for structured engagement among African governments on migration, economic cooperation and violence against foreign nationals.
She urged Nigeria to play a leading role in promoting such discussions, particularly through future engagements involving the Nigerian Society of International Law.
Xulu also advocated stronger African participation in international law and global governance, arguing that countries on the continent should contribute directly to the formulation of international rules and policies.
She welcomed ongoing discussions on international legal obligations and South Africa’s participation in proceedings before the International Court of Justice.
The diplomat further encouraged young Africans to become actively involved in shaping the continent’s political, economic and legal future.
She maintained that addressing migration pressures, strengthening regional trade and improving cooperation among governments would be essential to building stronger relationships across Africa.
The reported arrests come amid continuing concerns over attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, with questions remaining about the prosecution of suspects and the effectiveness of measures intended to prevent further violence.
