Zimbabwean authorities have warned their citizens in South Africa to exercise heightened caution following reports of protests targeting foreign nationals in major cities, amid growing fears that anti-immigration demonstrations could escalate into violence.
In a notice dated 28 April 2026, the Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Africa said it had received disturbing reports from its consulates in Johannesburg and Cape Town of protests that pose a “serious risk” to the safety and well-being of Zimbabweans living in South Africa.
“The Consulate of Zimbabwe in Johannesburg and Cape Town have received reports of disturbing demonstrations that are targeting foreign nationals. These incidents pose a serious risk to the safety and well-being of Zimbabwean nationals residing in South Africa,” the embassy noted.
The advisory calls on nationals to remain vigilant, avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, and limit unnecessary movement. Zimbabweans were also urged to report any incidents to local authorities, as well as to the embassy and consulates, and to keep essential identification documents with them at all times.
Authorities provided contact details for diplomatic missions in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Cape Town, encouraging citizens in distress to seek assistance.
The warning comes amid rising tensions linked to anti-immigration protests in South Africa, particularly in the capital, Pretoria, and in Johannesburg, the country’s economic hub.
African migrants in Pretoria were recently urged by their respective diplomatic missions and community leaders to adopt precautionary measures, including staying indoors and keeping a low profile during marches against illegal immigration.
Some protest organisers and participants argue that undocumented migrants are contributing to unemployment and placing strain on public services.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has, however, cautioned against allowing such concerns to fuel hostility toward foreign nationals.
Speaking during Freedom Day commemorations on Monday, he condemned attacks on migrants and urged citizens to reject prejudice, while acknowledging the role played by other African countries in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle.
Despite such appeals, previous protests linked to immigration have at times turned violent, raising fears of renewed xenophobic incidents.
Demonstrations in Pretoria this week drew hundreds of participants marching toward government offices, with some expressing frustration over what they described as inadequate policy responses to illegal immigration.
South Africa hosts an estimated 2.4 million migrants, many from neighbouring countries including Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho, reflecting longstanding regional labour migration patterns.
The Zimbabwean embassy said it would continue monitoring the situation and advised nationals to prioritise their safety as tensions persist.
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