This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
South Africa is grappling with a surge in Xenophobic attacks, with Nigerians and other foreign nationals bearing the brunt of the violence.
Disturbing videos of people being burnt alive in the streets while crowds cheer have gone viral, sparking widespread condemnation from Africans across the continent.
Popular celebrities such as Zari Hassan, Ray Hushpuppi, and Banky Wellington have taken to social media to express their outrage and sadness over the attacks.
"This is getting out of hand," Zari wrote on Instagram. "Xenophobic attacks are getting worse and some are using this opportunity to rob and loot foreigners' shops."
Ray Hushpuppi, a Nigerian billionaire, also expressed his outrage, saying, "I'm deeply horrified by the #xenophobia attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. We helped you during apartheid. We are the largest customers of your companies (MTN, DSTV, shoprite etc), yet you murder Nigerians, burn and loot their shops for no just cause."
South African politician Julius Malema has addressed the ongoing Xenophobia, calling upon his countrymen to respect their African brothers and sisters.
As the situation continues to unfold, Africans are calling for an end to the violence and for the South African government to take action to protect foreign nationals.
