Zimbabwe Intensifies Engagement With South Africa Over Xenophobic Tensions

The Zimbabwean government says it has stepped up diplomatic engagement with South African authorities amid growing concern over rising xenophobic tensions in parts of the neighbouring country.

Addressing the Senate recently, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi assured citizens that there is currently no immediate threat to Zimbabweans living in South Africa, despite recent anti-foreigner protests reported in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Ziyambi said Harare remains in constant communication with Pretoria as authorities closely monitor developments following incidents of looting and violence allegedly targeting foreign nationals during some demonstrations.

While acknowledging the concerns, the minister described the situation as largely calm and under control.

The issue was brought before Parliament by Senator Laban Munemo, who called on government to clarify measures being implemented to protect Zimbabweans amid recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa.

In response, Ziyambi said bilateral discussions are also focusing on the future of special permits held by thousands of Zimbabweans residing in South Africa. He noted that a South African court ruling currently prevents the cancellation of the permits or the deportation of permit holders.

He further revealed that the Zimbabwean Embassy in Pretoria is maintaining close surveillance of the situation and will continue providing updates should conditions change.

Zimbabweans constitute one of the largest migrant communities in South Africa, where periodic xenophobic unrest has frequently been linked to competition over jobs, housing, and access to public services.

By Witness A Phiri