The Government of Mozambique has confirmed that five of its citizens have been killed in what it describes as xenophobic attacks in South Africa, raising fresh concerns over the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.
According to Mozambican authorities, the victims were among several foreign nationals targeted during recent incidents of violence linked to anti-immigrant sentiments in parts of South Africa. The government expressed deep concern over the killings and called on South African authorities to take urgent steps to protect foreign residents and bring those responsible to justice.
Officials in Maputo stated that they are working closely with South African authorities to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attacks and to provide support to the affected families.
The latest development has reignited debate over xenophobia in South Africa, a recurring issue that has periodically resulted in violence, deaths, injuries, and the destruction of businesses owned by foreign nationals from across the African continent.
Several African governments and regional bodies have in the past condemned such attacks, urging stronger measures to promote peaceful coexistence and protect the rights of migrants.
South African authorities have yet to release a comprehensive report on the incidents, but security agencies are reportedly investigating the attacks and monitoring affected communities.
The killings have sparked reactions across the region, with calls for greater solidarity among African nations and renewed efforts to address the underlying social and economic challenges often blamed for tensions between local residents and migrant communities.
The Mozambican government has indicated that it will continue engaging South African officials while monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens living in the country.
