Thousands Leave South Africa as Anti-Immigrant Deadline Sparks Fear Across Region

Thousands of foreign nationals have begun leaving South Africa following growing fears of xenophobic violence as a June 30 ultimatum issued by anti-immigration groups took effect. Border posts, bus terminals and airports witnessed increased movement on Tuesday morning as migrants sought to return to their home countries or relocate to safer areas.

Many of those leaving are from neighbouring countries including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho and Botswana, while others are from countries farther north such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia. Some families packed their belongings overnight, saying they feared becoming targets despite having lived and worked in South Africa for years.

The departures come after weeks of rising tension fueled by calls from anti-immigration activists demanding that undocumented foreigners leave the country by June 30. Although the deadline was not issued by the South African government, it created widespread anxiety among migrant communities, many of whom chose not to wait and see whether planned demonstrations would remain peaceful.

South African authorities have increased security in major cities, deploying police officers to areas considered vulnerable to unrest. Government officials have emphasized that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of state institutions and have warned against acts of intimidation or violence targeting foreign nationals. Community leaders and civil society organizations have also appealed for calm, urging residents to reject xenophobia and resolve concerns through lawful means.

The unfolding situation has prompted concern across the region, with several African governments monitoring the safety of their citizens in South Africa. Diplomatic missions have advised nationals to remain vigilant, avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and maintain contact with their embassies. Some governments have also made contingency plans to assist citizens wishing to return home if the security situation deteriorates.

For many migrants, however, leaving South Africa is more than a journey across a border—it means abandoning jobs, businesses, schools and communities they have built over many years. As the region watches developments closely, there is growing hope that dialogue, respect for the rule of law and swift action by security agencies will prevent a repeat of the deadly xenophobic attacks that have scarred South Africa in previous years.