Prayers for Peace After 4 Xenophobic Murders in Addo Velancia, South Africa

In Addo Velancia, South Africa, a heart-wrenching chapter of violence has unfolded. Four xenophobic murders have left the community shaken and thousands displaced. Yet out of the ashes of tragedy, South Africans and foreigners are finding solace in prayer. They have come together in a powerful act of unity, lighting white candles and displaying white balloons, all while imploring God to restore peace in their community, which has been torn apart by xenophobia and senseless violence.

The echoes of this violent recent past linger, but amidst the chaos, hope emerges. Zimbabwean pastor Ngonidzashe Chikanya, a resident of Valencia for a decade, joined the prayers, highlighting the need for compassion in these trying times. Morne Serome, deputy chairman of a newly formed group of South African and Zimbabwean church leaders, emphasized the importance of educating local children about the significance of peaceful coexistence with immigrants. Soon, they will visit local schools with this critical message.

However, the backdrop of violence paints a stark reality. A mob of South Africans, armed with rocks and sticks, instigated the xenophobic violence that ended in tragedy. In a disheartening turn of events, the South African Home Affairs department compounded the situation by arresting the victims of this violence, showing a disturbing lack of empathy. While permits were granted to 200,000 undocumented Zimbabwean immigrants through the ZEP program, the victims of xenophobia received no such consideration, leaving them in a precarious position.

Some are pointing fingers at divine retribution, suggesting that the floods recently experienced in KwaZulu-Natal are a punishment from God for the ongoing violence and murder of foreigners. With no suspects apprehended in the Addo murders, it seems that nature itself has responded to the community’s turmoil.

The impact of this crisis extends beyond the immediate violence and upheaval. Grade seven student Lihle Kula, just 16 years old, articulated her heartbreak at witnessing her community turn on immigrants they’ve coexisted with for years. She saw immigrants being murdered. In a world where division can feel insurmountable, her plea for understanding resonates deeply.

In light of the recent challenges, the fight for unity and compassion continues. During the COVID-19 economic shutdown, I had the honor of assisting over 500 stranded foreigners with food parcels. Now, as I strive to support both my farming business and community charity work, I appeal for contributions to sustain these efforts.

Your support can make a significant difference. Please consider donating to:

Bank Details:
– Bank: FNB/RMB
– Account Holder: Makumbirofa Farms (Pty) Ltd
– Account Type: Gold Business Account
– Account Number: 63108161538
– Branch Code: 250655
– Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ

PayPal: donations@makumbirofafarms.co.za

Together, let us pray for peace, promote understanding, and work towards a more harmonious community in Addo Velancia. With compassion and concerted action, we can heal the wounds of violence and build a future where all can thrive.

By Collen Makumbirofa 
Makumbirofa Farms 
http://www.makumbirofafarms.co.za
cmcm74420@gmail.com 
admin@makumbirofafarms.co.za