Some South African factory workers have protested against the xenophobic crackdown targeting foreign nationals, following a series of attacks and actions that have forced many immigrants, including Ghanaians, to leave the country.
The protesters argued that several sectors of the economy rely heavily on the contributions of foreign workers and entrepreneurs, warning that their absence is already disrupting economic activity and affecting livelihoods.
According to the demonstrators, many of the foreign nationals who have left the country are employers, investors, and skilled workers whose businesses provide jobs and contribute significantly to local economic development.
The workers took to the streets to express their opposition to the anti-immigrant campaign. They called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to take steps to restore confidence among foreign nationals and encourage their return.
Some protesters further warned that continued hostility towards foreign nationals could have serious consequences for industries that rely on their knowledge and technical skills, particularly within the manufacturing and garment sectors.
One demonstrator said South Africans have benefited greatly from the presence of foreign nationals, stressing that many local workers acquired specialised skills through working alongside them.
“We say no to xenophobia. We need foreigners back. Without foreigners, we are nothing. All we know as South Africans is how to cut fabric, but the foreigners know how to make the garments. Without them, we are nothing.
“Mr. Ramaphosa, you cannot chase foreigners away because they are part of us. If you send them away, we will be left with nothing. The factories are going to close, and we are going to become poorer. We have children, and what are our children going to eat? We need foreigners,” she said.
The protest comes amid growing tensions fuelled by an anti-immigrant campaign led by Jacinta and her supporters, who accuse foreign nationals of taking jobs from South Africans and have demanded that they leave the country.
Meanwhile, the xenophobic attacks have prompted the Ghanaian government to evacuate more than 1000 of its citizens from South Africa as efforts continue to ensure their safety and well-being.
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