As violence against migrants escalates in South Africa, concerns grow in Pakistan regarding the safety and livelihoods of approximately 200,000 Pakistanis residing there. Many of these individuals operate small businesses that support families back in Pakistan, contributing significantly to the country’s economy through remittances. In the fiscal year 2026, Pakistan received $290.7 million in remittances from South Africa, highlighting the importance of this relationship.
In recent months, xenophobia in South Africa has intensified, with migrants from Africa and Asia facing increasing hostility. This year, anti-migrant groups such as March and March and Operation Dudula called for the expulsion of “illegal foreigners” by June 30. Fayyaz Khan, president of the Pakistan-South Africa Association, stated that it would be unfeasible to repatriate all Pakistani nationals by the deadline, as only about 25,000 migrants, both legal and illegal, left the country in response to the ultimatum.
Following the deadline, anti-migrant protests occurred across South Africa, with over 120 incidents reported on June 30 alone. These demonstrations often turned violent, leading to migrants being driven from their homes and businesses, with some stores looted or burned. As of now, more than 178,000 African migrants have fled the country, although there are no official statistics on how many Pakistanis have left.
Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, a leader of the anti-immigrant movement, has specifically targeted Pakistanis and Somalis in her rhetoric, claiming they have become “first rank citizens” while South Africans suffer. Ngobese-Zuma also alleged that migrants use “protection-fee mafias” against protesters, a claim that has been debunked by local fact-checkers. This targeted language raises alarm in Islamabad, indicating that Pakistanis are particularly vulnerable in the current climate.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence against migrants and expressed sympathy for the victims while calling for justice against the perpetrators. However, analysts argue that government statements alone do not ensure the safety of foreign nationals living in South Africa.
In response to the crisis, Nigeria has begun seeking compensation for its citizens who have fled due to violence, while Ghana has pledged similar support for its nationals. Pakistan could take similar steps by establishing formal channels for citizens to report losses and pressing the South African government for mechanisms to investigate these claims and provide compensation.
Despite multiple crises occupying Pakistan’s foreign ministry, the substantial remittances and the vulnerability of its citizens in South Africa necessitate a prompt and comprehensive response.
