Anti-immigrant protests in South Africa have led thousands of foreign residents, including Nigerians and Ghanaians, to leave the country, raising diplomatic concerns.

The unrest, which peaked at the end of June, reflects high unemployment and social tension. Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie said the government intends to target undocumented migrants, while President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed the state's authority to enforce immigration laws.

Richard Itoro, a 47‑year‑old Nigerian who ran a car dealership in Johannesburg, said the departure was difficult because of harassment and threats from neighbours. He presented a document to the BBC that he says confirms his legal right to reside, but he still experienced intimidation. He boarded a voluntary repatriation flight in June and said he hopes his family will join him soon. Emmanuel Asamoah, a 37‑year‑old Ghanaian hairdresser who lived in Soweto, described being surrounded by a group of South Africans who demanded that he leave. He said the group accused migrants of taking jobs and relationships. Asamoah returned to Accra in May and, with assistance from a Ghanaian businessman, opened a cement business.

Nigerian officials reported that many citizens with valid residence permits have been attacked, prompting a meeting between Minister Sola Enikanolaiye and South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola. Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the treatment of Ghanaian citizens undermines continental solidarity and the legacy of the anti‑apartheid struggle. Both men said they remain hopeful that their personal circumstances will improve as they rebuild their lives abroad.