South Africa is experiencing a significant anti-immigrant movement, highlighted by the March and March initiative advocating for the mass deportation of undocumented migrants by June 30, 2026. This movement has emerged amid rising unemployment, declining public services, and increasing insecurity, leading to heightened anti-immigrant violence and repatriation efforts by other African nations. While the movement's grievances are acknowledged, the underlying causes of the economic crisis are being debated.

In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.

South Africa's anti-migrant sentiment has led to a loss of support from other African teams during the World Cup, as expressed by a representative who noted a lack of action from South Africans regarding the situation in their country. The comments highlight concerns over rising hate against migrants in South Africa.

According to SABC News, more than 8,000 Malawian nationals in KwaZulu-Natal have been processed by Home Affairs as they request repatriation. This increase in requests reflects a growing trend among foreign nationals in the region seeking to return to their home countries.

According to Capital FM Business, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced that 151 Kenyans have been repatriated from South Africa due to rising anti-migrant tensions. Additionally, a total of 240 Kenyan nationals have registered for assistance with the Kenya High Commission in Pretoria.

South African police are investigating a murder linked to a surge in anti-migrant attacks, which have resulted in several fatalities and prompted hundreds of individuals to flee the country. The situation reflects growing tensions surrounding migrants in South Africa, according to Al Jazeera.