Zimbabwe’s embassy in South Africa has issued an urgent warning to nationals living there to exercise extreme caution following reports of demonstrations targeting foreign nationals.
In an advisory dated April 28, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in South Africa said its consulates in Johannesburg and Cape Town had received reports of disturbing incidents linked to anti-foreigner protests.
“The Consulate of Zimbabwe in Johannesburg and Cape Town have received reports of disturbing demonstrations that are targeting foreign nationals,” reads part of the notice.
“These incidents pose a serious risk to the safety and well-being of Zimbabwean nationals residing in South Africa.”
The embassy urged Zimbabweans to remain vigilant and avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.
“Zimbabwean nationals are invited to remain vigilant and avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place,” the notice said.
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Citizens were also advised to stay indoors, limit unnecessary movement and report incidents to the South African Police Service as well as Zimbabwean diplomatic offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
They were further urged to keep essential documents with them at all times.
The advisory comes amid renewed tensions in parts of South Africa over the presence of foreign nationals, with migrant communities often targeted during protests linked to unemployment, crime and competition for economic opportunities.
South Africa has in recent years experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence, particularly in Johannesburg, Durban and other major cities, where foreign-owned businesses have been looted and migrants assaulted.
Zimbabweans are among the largest migrant communities in South Africa, with many relocating over the years in search of economic opportunities and better living conditions.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of its nationals,” the notice added.