South African Correspondent
Zimbabweans living in South Africa are on high alert, fearing xenophobic attacks as Operation Dudula, supported by immigration officials, cracks down on suspected illegal immigrants.
The operation, dubbed “Operation No Foreigner/No foreigners in non-critical skills jobs,” has already spread to multiple provinces after starting in Polokwane on September 23.
Local residents in Polokwane are reportedly backing Operation Dudula, helping them target homes where Zimbabweans work as maids and gardeners. Operation Dudula claims these jobs should be reserved for South Africans, despite many young people in the country shunning such work.
Gabriel Shumba, legal director of the Global Immigration and Legal Consultancy, condemns the raids as xenophobic.
“Instead of targeting foreigners, South Africans should focus on creating economic opportunities and combating racism and discrimination in the workplace,” he says
Unfortunately, xenophobic attacks against black immigrants in South Africa are nothing new, with some Zimbabweans having been killed in cold blood. The International Labour Organization notes that labor migration in Africa is largely intra-regional, with 80% of migrants moving within the continent, mainly for low-skilled work.
Key Concerns:
- Xenophobic Attacks: Operation Dudula’s rhetoric fuels fear among black immigrants.
- Labor Migration: 80% of African migrants move within the continent for low-skilled work.
- Economic Opportunities: South Africans need to create space for more locals in the economy.
- Racism and Discrimination: Workplace issues affect the majority of the black labor force.
Previous Incidents:
Xenophobic attacks have plagued South Africa for years, claiming lives and sparking international outcry. The authorities must keep the public secure and prevent violence during demonstrations.
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