The disturbing scenes unfolding in South Africa, where fellow Africans are being harassed, threatened and told to “go back home,” should trouble every African.
As the June 30 ultimatum issued by vigilante groups such as March and March approaches, one question demands an answer: If Africans must leave South Africa, where exactly should they go?
This question goes beyond migration. It touches on Africa’s identity and future.
The borders that separate African countries today were largely drawn by colonial powers. Yet decades later, we continue to use those same boundaries to divide ourselves. Before colonialism, Africans moved, traded and lived across the continent with far fewer restrictions than exist today.
Migration within Africa is not unusual. Like people everywhere, Africans move in search of opportunities, security and a better life. Many migrate to South Africa because of economic opportunities, just as others move to Ghana, Nigeria and other countries to work, study or invest.
South Africa’s challenges of unemployment and inequality are real. However, blaming fellow Africans for those problems is both inaccurate and dangerous. Migrants are not the cause of economic hardship, and their removal will not automatically create jobs.
In fact, many African migrants contribute significantly to local economies as traders, entrepreneurs and service providers. Their businesses support livelihoods, create jobs and strengthen trade networks.
At a time when Africa should be deepening economic integration through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), growing hostility toward fellow Africans sends the wrong signal. A continent seeking unity cannot simultaneously build barriers against its own people.
Africa currently sits at the centre of global demand for critical minerals and natural resources. This should be a moment for cooperation, industrialisation and shared prosperity. But such opportunities can only be fully realised through collaboration, not division.
If we continue to fragment ourselves along national lines, we weaken our collective strength and bargaining power. A divided Africa benefits others more than it benefits Africans.
South Africa has long been regarded as one of the continent’s leading economic hubs. Preserving that reputation requires openness, stability and respect for the contributions of all who live and work there.
As tensions rise, leadership is needed. Authorities must address legitimate concerns through lawful means while firmly rejecting violence, vigilantism and unlawful expulsions.
Ultimately, the answer to Africa’s challenges does not lie in turning against one another.
So again, we ask: If Africans must go, where should they go?
Surely not away from one another.
Africa’s future lies in deeper integration, stronger cooperation and a renewed commitment to the belief that despite our differences, we share a common destiny
