WHO Director-General condemns xenophobic violence in South Africa, urges protection for migrants.

Chiemelie Ezeobi

World Health Organization Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has condemned the recent surge of xenophobic violence in South Africa, calling it a tragic betrayal of the nation’s historic struggle for freedom and justice.

In a statement shared on social media, Dr. Tedros expressed deep sorrow over reports of renewed attacks on foreign nationals that have reportedly killed several people, displaced thousands of families, and forced many others to flee for safety.

“It is profoundly heartbreaking to witness another surge of xenophobic violence in South Africa this week,” he said.

He noted that hundreds of people have marched on Parliament amid the unrest, while thousands of families have been displaced.

Dr. Tedros highlighted that the victims included at least five Ethiopians killed in earlier attacks and five Mozambicans who reportedly died in Mossel Bay.

He recalled the support African nations gave South Africa during the anti‑apartheid struggle, emphasizing that the continent stood together in the fight against racial oppression.

“To see South Africa turn to xenophobia is a tragic betrayal of the country’s struggle for independence and freedom,” he said.

The WHO chief noted Ethiopia’s historical support for the late former South African President Nelson Mandela, famously known as Madiba, pointing out that Ethiopia issued Mandela a passport in 1962 to enable his travel across Africa during the liberation struggle.

He added that several other African countries also provided political, diplomatic and financial support to the anti‑apartheid movement.

Dr. Tedros urged South Africans to address grievances through lawful channels rather than violence.

“Disagreements and grievances must be addressed by the justice system and the rule of law, never through vigilante violence and collective punishment,” he said.

Calling for an end to the attacks, he said: “South Africa deserves better. Africa deserves better. Stop the hate. Protect the vulnerable. Uphold our shared humanity.”