Amafibe Condemns Rising Xenophobic Attacks Across Africa, Calls for Urgent Action

A public affairs analyst and founder, 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit, Dr Kingsley Amafibe, has strongly condemned the increasing wave of violence against Africans within the continent, describing the trend as dangerous, unacceptable, and a direct threat to African unity and integration.

In a statement issues in Abuja, Amafibe raised concerns over recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in countries including South Africa and Ghana, warning that such incidents undermine decades of efforts toward continental cooperation.

“Africa must remain a safe home for all Africans, regardless of nationality. When we begin to attack one another, we destroy the very foundation of our shared identity,” Amafibe said.

He noted that the resurgence of xenophobia, particularly in South Africa where foreign-owned businesses have reportedly come under attack, reflects deeper socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, inequality, and weak institutional responses.

“Violence against fellow Africans weakens the vision of pan-African unity and sends the wrong signal to the rest of the world about who we are as a people,” he added.

Amafibe warned that beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, the attacks could negatively impact trade, investment, and regional frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while also straining diplomatic relations among African nations.

He called on governments, civil society organisations, and regional bodies, including the African Union, to take coordinated and decisive action to address the root causes of xenophobia and protect all residents irrespective of nationality.

“Governments must go beyond rhetoric by implementing policies that promote tolerance, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence, while ensuring perpetrators of violence are held accountable,” Amafibe stated.

He urged African youth and community leaders to reject divisive narratives and embrace unity, stressing that the continent’s future depends on collaboration rather than conflict.

He added that his position aligns with broader conversations at platforms such as the 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit, where the emphasis remains on strengthening partnerships, boosting intra-African trade, and promoting sustainable development.

Observers say Amafibe’s remarks come at a critical time, as renewed concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals in parts of Africa, with stakeholders warning that failure to act decisively could erode progress toward continental unity.