Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, has urged Nigerians to think about pulling their investments from South Africa due to ongoing xenophobic attacks against African migrants. His call comes in light of repeated incidents that have raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) is advocating for a review of aviation taxes and an economic boycott of South Africa. This initiative arises amid increasing operational costs faced by Nigerian airlines and broader concerns regarding sustainability in the industry, alongside renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa that have sparked criticism from Nigerians.

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.

Some Malawian nationals residing in Durban have expressed happiness about returning to their home country. Their departure coincides with increasing anti-immigration protests in various regions of South Africa, which have raised concerns among foreign nationals.

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.

Scores of Malawian nationals gathered near North Beach in Durban as they prepared to return to their home country on Wednesday, according to Sowetan.