Namibia urges vigilance amid SA xenophobic attacks

Namibia has urged its citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant and seek consular assistance if needed amid ongoing anti-migrant unrest and xenophobic attacks. This follows reports of unrest in South Africa, with some citizens demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country by 30 June. There have been reports of vigilante groups checking the documentation of foreign nationals and forcing small businesses run by non-South Africans to close.

Ministry of International Relations and Trade executive director Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati says the ministry has not received reports of Namibian nationals being affected by the unrest in South Africa. However, Nghipondoka-Robiati says the ministry continues to monitor the situation and has advised citizens requiring assistance to contact the High Commission of the Republic of Namibia in Pretoria or the Consulate-General of the Republic of Namibia in Cape Town. “Namibian citizens residing in, studying in, or travelling to South Africa are advised to remain vigilant, avoid areas where tensions may occur, and prioritise their personal safety at all times,” she says.