Zimbabwe issues safety alert as anti foreigner protests spread across South Africa
THE Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Africa has issued an urgent safety advisory to its nationals, warning them to avoid protest hotspots as anti foreigner demonstrations intensify in several provinces.
In Advisory Note Number 1 of 2026, released on 28 April, the embassy said consulates in Johannesburg and Cape Town had reported incidents threatening the safety and well being of Zimbabweans. The warning comes amid renewed unrest targeting foreign owned shops and informal traders.
“Unrest has erupted in some areas, with demonstrators reportedly targeting foreign nationals,” the embassy said. “Fears of violence and displacement continue to grow.”
The latest wave of protests began last week in parts of Gauteng and the Western Cape, with groups marching under the banner of “Operation Dudula” and other local formations. Demonstrators have called for undocumented migrants to leave, citing unemployment and pressure on public services.
Police have confirmed road blockades and looting in Diepsloot, Orange Farm and Khayelitsha. No Zimbabwean deaths had been confirmed by Tuesday, but the embassy said several nationals reported intimidation and damage to property.
South Africa is home to an estimated 1 to 3 million Zimbabweans, many of whom work in retail, transport and domestic sectors. Previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence in 2008, 2015 and 2019 left dozens dead and displaced thousands.
Zimbabweans have been urged to avoid protest areas, remain indoors where possible and limit unnecessary travel. The embassy advised nationals to carry identification and travel documents at all times for verification by authorities.
Citizens facing threats should contact the South African Police Service and notify Zimbabwe’s diplomatic missions. The embassy said it is engaging Pretoria and provincial authorities to ensure protection of its nationals.
“We are monitoring developments closely and will provide timely updates,” the embassy said.
The advisory follows diplomatic tension last month after Zimbabwe raised concerns over inflammatory remarks by some South African politicians ahead of local elections. Pretoria has reiterated its commitment to protecting all persons within its borders.
Human rights groups have called for stronger policing of vigilantism and faster documentation processes for migrants. The South African Department of Home Affairs has not yet responded to the latest embassy note.
Emergency contacts: Embassy of Zimbabwe, Pretoria, 798 Merton Avenue, Arcadia. Hotline: +27 12 342 5125. Consulate, Johannesburg, 20 Ernest Oppenheimer Avenue, Bruma. Hotline: +27 11 615 1410. Consulate, Cape Town, 53 to 55 Kuyper Street, Zonnebloem. Hotline: +27 21 461 8892.
