Foreigners Abahambe in South Africa and Get Votes, Money, and Power

In recent times, a dangerous narrative has taken hold across South Africa: the call for foreigners to leave, encapsulated in the phrase “Foreigners Abahambe.” This slogan is not just a chant; it’s a political tool that some leaders are exploiting to gain support, secure votes, amass wealth, and wield power. They are playing on the fears, frustrations, and anger of a nation battered by decades of hardship.

South Africa is currently a deeply polarized country. The majority of its people live in poverty, suffering without basic necessities such as jobs, housing, or steady income. The nation has become a battleground of lies and deception, manipulated by leaders who often prioritize their own interests over the wellbeing of the populace. These leaders stoke division, fueling hatred against foreigners by blaming them for crime, job losses, and even for the loss of social harmony—such as the perceived competition for beautiful women.

This scapegoating is dangerous. It is a tactic used by desperate leaders who understand that inciting hatred can galvanize support. The phrase “Foreigners Abahambe” resonates with many who feel abandoned by their government and overwhelmed by economic failure. They are told that removing foreigners will bring prosperity, jobs, and a better life. But this is a lie, a seductive but false promise.

It’s important to acknowledge that some foreigners may commit crimes or act irresponsibly, but they represent a tiny fraction of the population. Many come to South Africa seeking better opportunities or fleeing hardships, just like any other human being. I have reported crimes committed by foreigners, but I also know that the majority of lawbreakers in prisons are South Africans. The narrative that foreigners are the main problem is misleading and dangerous.

Historically, many businesses in South Africa—such as tuckshops and salons—were started by South Africans. Over time, due to neglect, corruption, and economic decline, these businesses have been abandoned or become difficult to sustain. Foreign entrepreneurs have stepped in, renting or running these shops and services. But these initiatives are responses to a broken system, not the root cause of the country’s problems.

South Africa’s economic decline has been driven by decades of mismanagement, inequality, and policies that discourage growth. COVID-19 further devastated the economy, leading to increased crime—murder, rape, kidnapping, and ransom demands. Sadly, many of these crimes involve South Africans themselves, those affected includes young teenagers and children. I have reported numerous cases of such tragedies.

The real solution is not to chase foreigners away but to create jobs and rebuild the economy. South Africans need meaningful employment, not just survival tactics like street vending or temporary restaurant jobs. When the country was more stable, nobody sought such low-paying, precarious work. Instead, the wealthiest and political leaders should focus on developing industries that can generate lasting employment.

They have the resources and influence to start manufacturing essential goods locally—matches, tissues, pens, sellotapes—instead of importing everything from abroad, especially from countries like China. By investing in local industries, they can create thousands of jobs and foster economic independence.

The “Abahambe” campaign and similar politics are not only hurting economic prospects but also spiritual and moral values. Every human life is sacred—whether someone has legal documents or not. Violence, killing, and hatred pollute the land and invite curses that threaten the nation’s stability. There is a real risk of tribal and racial wars erupting, especially as many foreigners have children with South African women, and some foreign bloodlines are deeply woven into the fabric of society.

South Africa is facing a period of turmoil that could lead to dictatorship and widespread chaos. If current trends continue, the country may fracture into factions, with South Africans scattered across Africa, following those foreigners they once chased away. While this may seem bleak, history shows that surrounding nations can accept refugees and displaced people, especially when human life is valued.

Let us pray for South Africa. The future does not have to be this way. With unity, honest leadership, and compassion, the nation can heal. It’s time to seek solutions rooted in truth, justice, and love—values that transcend politics and division.

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Let’s work towards a South Africa that values its people and its future.

By Collen Makumbirofa
Makumbirofa Farms
www.makumbirofafarms.co.za
admin@makumbirofafarms.co.za