Ndiitah Nghipondoka Robiati, Minister of International relations and Trade
Image: supplied
The Namibian government has called on its nationals residing in South Africa to exercise caution and utilize available diplomatic support as concerns regarding xenophobic violence intensify.
The warning comes as tensions in some communities have sparked fears for the safety of foreign nationals, prompting Namibia to encourage its citizens to avoid potential flashpoints, stay informed, and contact consular officials if they feel threatened.
Anti-migration groups in various regions of South Africa have reportedly begun verifying the documents of foreign nationals and focusing their actions on small businesses operated by non-citizens. These developments have intensified anxiety within migrant communities and triggered cautionary statements from several neighboring administrations.
Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati, executive director of Namibia’s Ministry of International Relations and Trade, stated that there have been no documented cases of Namibian citizens being affected by the disturbances. She said the ministry is closely monitoring the situation and encouraged Namibians needing assistance to contact the Republic of Namibia’s Consulate-General in Cape Town or High Commission in Pretoria.
“Namibian nationals living, studying, or visiting South Africa should remain vigilant, avoid high-tension areas, and prioritize their personal safety,” Nghipondoka-Robiati said.
In Durban last month, hundreds of foreign nationals, including people from Somalia, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, reportedly sought refuge after residents allegedly moved through neighborhoods demanding that migrants leave by the end of the month.
The South African government has condemned violence against foreign nationals and said it is committed to improving migration management and promoting social cohesion.
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