By Prof. Eugene Bakama and Ibrahim Sanda Barrie
In South Africa, xenophobia is often discussed in emotional or security terms, but behind the headlines lies a more complex reality, marked by inequality, governance failures and growing disillusionment with the promises of democracy. Recurring violence against migrants from countries such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia and Ethiopia shows that this phenomenon is neither isolated nor random. On the contrary, it is deeply rooted in the daily struggles for employment, housing, security and dignity.
Many people view xenophobia simply as hatred of foreigners. This is too narrow an interpretation. In reality, the phenomenon is closely linked to the way societies respond to poverty, exclusion and the weakness of public services. When the state struggles to meet basic needs, frustration builds at the grassroots level. Migrants, who are generally visible and economically active in the informal sector, then become easy targets for anger that is in fact directed at broader structural failings.
A democracy that promised more than it delivered
When apartheid ended in 1994 under the leadership of Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress, expectations were extremely high. Many South Africans believed that democracy would bring jobs, equal opportunities and dignity after decades of racial exclusion.
Although political freedom was achieved, economic transformation has been slower and more uneven. South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, a reality widely documented by development agencies and researchers. In townships and informal settlements, unemployment, poor housing conditions and limited access to services remain daily challenges.
Young people are particularly affected, with unemployment rates remaining stubbornly high.
In these circumstances, survival often depends on informal work. Street vending, small-scale trade and casual labour have become essential to many peoples livelihoods. Migrants often participate in these same informal economies. This is where tensions often arise, not because migrants represent the problem per se, but because everyone is competing in an environment of scarcity.
Migration and regional pressures
In South Africa, xenophobia is often discussed in terms of emotions or security, but behind the headlines lies a more complex reality, marked by inequality, governance failures and growing disillusionment with the promises of democracy. Recurring violence against migrants from countries such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia and Ethiopia shows that this phenomenon is neither isolated nor random. On the contrary, it is deeply rooted in the daily struggles for employment, housing, security and dignity.
Many people view xenophobia simply as hatred of foreigners. This is too narrow an interpretation. In reality, this phenomenon is closely linked to the way societies respond to poverty, exclusion and the weakness of public services. When the state struggles to meet basic needs, frustration builds at the grassroots level. Migrants, who are generally visible and economically active in the informal sector, then become easy targets for anger that is in fact directed at broader structural failings.
Xenophobia as a disappointment in democracy
At a deeper level, xenophobia reflects a more troubling phenomenon: a crisis of trust in democracy itself. Democracy is not only about voting; it also depends on citizens being able to see real improvements in their daily lives. In South Africa, many people still face unemployment, inequality, and poor public services. This gap between expectations and reality creates frustration. Over time, that frustration can turn into social division. For this reason, xenophobia should not be seen simply as hatred of foreigners. It is also a symptom of deeper structural problems. Some scholars refer to this as a crisis of democratic legitimacy.
Regional inequalities and incomplete integration
The wider Southern African region also plays a role. Economic disparities between South Africa and its neighbors continue to shape migration flows. Without stronger regional coordination and development strategies, these pressures will continue. The Southern African Development Community has made progress in promoting regional cooperation, but implementation challenges remain, especially in migration management and economic integration.
What needs to change
Fighting xenophobia requires more than responding after violence has already broken out. It calls for long-term structural change. First, job creation and youth employment must be strengthened. Economic marginalization is one of the main factors behind social tensions. Second, better local governance and stronger anti-corruption efforts can help rebuild trust in public institutions. Third, political leaders must avoid language that encourages scapegoating. Responsible communication is essential in shaping public attitudes. Fourth, regional cooperation must move beyond political statements toward practical economic integration and coordinated migration management. Finally, education and community engagement can help counter misinformation and strengthen social cohesion.
Conclusion
Xenophobia in South Africa goes beyond hostility toward foreign nationals. It is closely linked to broader social and economic pressures, including high unemployment, entrenched inequality, failing public services, and frustration with political promises that remain unfulfilled. In this context, migrants are often blamed for problems that actually stem from long-standing structural challenges.
As long as these underlying problems remain unresolved, tensions are likely to continue. The challenge, therefore, is not only to protect migrants, but also to address the conditions that fuel resentment. Ultimately, the goal is to build a society where frustration does not turn into violence, and where democracy delivers not only political rights, but also dignity and better living conditions in everyday life.