African Migrants Flee Into Mountains as Xenophobic Violence Spreads in South Africa
Migrants from Malawi and Mozambique take shelter in mountains and town halls as anti-immigrant violence spreads across Western Cape towns.
Tensions in South Africa’s Western Cape province have forced African migrants to abandon their homes and seek safety in nearby mountains and temporary shelters, following a surge in anti-immigrant violence and protests.
Mozambican migrant Lado Amido said he fled his home in Kleinmond after an angry crowd arrived at his door demanding that foreigners leave the area. He spent two nights hiding in the mountains before relocating to a town hall now serving as a makeshift shelter for displaced migrants.
Similar scenes have been reported across several coastal towns, where migrants from countries including Malawi and Mozambique have been forced to flee their communities amid rising hostility. Authorities in Mozambique say at least five of its citizens were killed in recent xenophobic attacks in Mossel Bay.
Amido, who arrived in South Africa earlier this year in search of work, said his belongings were taken when protesters visited his home. He is now among about 100 migrants sheltering in Kleinmond’s town hall, some of whom are considering voluntary repatriation programs supported by their home governments.
Xenophobic violence has long been a recurring issue in South Africa, where foreign nationals are often blamed for unemployment and crime, despite limited evidence supporting such claims. Political figures have frequently referenced migration in public discourse, especially ahead of elections.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the recent violence while addressing parliament, urging efforts to build a safer and more inclusive society while acknowledging migration challenges.
Local officials in Kleinmond say immigration enforcement operations have recently targeted businesses and informal settlements. However, they note that many of those affected are legally residing in the country.
Ward councillor Grant Cohen warned that even children who were previously attending school are now among those displaced and fearful, adding that residents should not resort to vigilante action.
Another migrant, Michael Markson, described hiding in the mountains after fleeing his settlement, saying armed protesters with knives and sticks were seen in the area. He is now seeking assistance to return home, though financial constraints make the journey difficult.
Despite acknowledging economic hardship in his home country, Markson said the fear of violence in South Africa had become unbearable, forcing him to consider leaving despite the lack of better opportunities elsewhere.
