Study of Zimbabweans Views on the 2015 Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

Abstract

This study interrogated Zimbabweans views on the 2015 South Africa xenophobic attacks, so as to understand its root causes, socio-economic determinants and effects. It was informed by the theory of violence, frustration aggression and human needs theories. Thus, it queries Ubuntu, the notion of peaceful co-existence key to human security and sustainable development. Xenophobia is a contentious issue, viewed as extreme hatred, behavioural prejudice and violence towards foreigners. Zimbabweans are increasingly becoming victims. The high influxes of Zimbabweans into South Africa is perceived by South Africans as scramble for scarce resources, thereby disturbing social order. Yet Zimbabweans migration significantly contributed to South Africa’s broader socio-economic development. It is critical to highlight that xenophobic attacks are rife in countries undergoing political, social, legal and economic transformation and South Africa is a classic example. For instance, the apartheid era led to institutionalised racism that shape South Africa post-independence era stereotypes and allegations. As such, utilising a qualitative study, this research seeks to document Zimbabweans views of these attacks, based on their lived experiences. Qualitative techniques, literature review, focus group discussion and in depth interviews were used to collect data. These techniques were appropriate as they enabled the researcher to collect rich data of experiences of participants. The research findings are organised according to major themes that emerged. This research’s findings resonates with the assumption that competition for resources triggers xenophobic attacks in communities, due to displacement of anger and aggression. The South African Government promises made to citizen’s pre and post-independence such as creating economic emancipation and equal opportunities for all remain unfulfilled and worsen frustration resulting in recurring displaced anger aggression on foreigners. Indeed, this entrenched culture of aggression and violence constitute violation of human rights and contradicts the notion of Ubuntu, which emphasise peace, tolerance and harmony. South Africans are perceived as violent and comments by political leaders and media reporting continue to instigate violence. Some fellow Zimbabweans especially those who have assimilated became xenophobia entrepreneurs who took advantage to attack and steal from own fellows. The xenophobic effects include loss of life, personal belongings, trauma affects self-esteem and perpetuates superiority and inferiority complexes. The study ends by providing recommendations to the Governments of Zimbabwe and South Africa to simplify permits application processes promote safe migration, train frontline staff such as the police, conduct comprehensive education campaigns, continuously train law enforcement agencies to promote reintegration to uphold Ubuntu for a Kwerekwere free society.