“We are nothing without foreigners; bring them back” – South Africans urge Ramaphosa
Factory workers protest xenophobic violence in South Africa, warning that the economy depends heavily on foreign workers and urging President Ramaphosa to intervene
- South African factory workers have protested against xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals.
- They warn that industries are suffering due to the departure of skilled foreign workers and investors
- Protesters are urging President Ramaphosa to act and restore confidence among immigrants
Some factory workers in South Africa have staged protests against the ongoing xenophobic crackdown targeting foreign nationals, calling for the return of immigrants who have been forced to leave the country following recent attacks.
The demonstrators say the departure of many foreign workers and entrepreneurs — including Ghanaians — is already disrupting production and weakening economic activity in key sectors.
According to the workers, foreign nationals play a crucial role in manufacturing, retail, and other industries, often as employers, investors, and skilled professionals whose businesses sustain jobs for locals.
They took to the streets to appeal to President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene and restore confidence among immigrants, warning that continued hostility could further damage the economy.
Some protesters argued that many South Africans depend on skills transferred by foreign workers, particularly in the garment and manufacturing sectors.
One demonstrator said the absence of foreigners would have severe consequences for livelihoods.
“We say no to xenophobia. We need foreigners back. Without foreigners, we are nothing,” she said. “All we know as South Africans is how to cut fabric, but the foreigners know how to make the garments. Without them, we are nothing.”
She added that removing foreign nationals would lead to factory closures and worsening poverty, urging authorities to protect economic stability and social cohesion.
The protest comes amid rising tensions linked to anti-immigrant campaigns accusing foreign nationals of taking jobs from locals.
Meanwhile, the situation has prompted the Ghanaian government to evacuate more than 1,000 citizens from South Africa as part of efforts to ensure their safety and well-being.
