Durban, South Africa – KwaZulu-Natal is on the edge of a potential crisis as tensions over foreign nationals escalate. The #MarchinMarch movement, originally a call for action against alleged injustices caused by immigration policies, is now spiraling into a dangerous storm. Social media is ablaze with fiery rhetoric, with key figures like Jacinta maNgobese Zuma at the center of the controversy. But is this a fight for justice, or a prelude to xenophobic violence?
Jacinta maNgobese Zuma: A Voice for the People or a Call for War?
Jacinta maNgobese Zuma, a prominent radio presenter, has taken to social media with explosive posts that have fueled a heated national debate. Her latest statements have ignited fears that this march could turn into chaos:
“All I am saying is after the march, if no action is taken, then we need to be violent. Before that, there are soldiers and SAPS members who might understand where we are coming from. They are also tired of foreigners. Once a directive comes from seniors, they will refuse to fight us and stand with us. Otherwise, we will have to do something because corrupt police officers and soldiers will only protect foreigners.”
“Foreigners in South Africa HATE South Africans and celebrate our downfall all the time! They boldly say they will take over our country because that is the objective, and South Africans are too busy with meaningless things to defend themselves, their country, and their children’s future! So start imagining yourselves in a country run by foreigners where you have no place in your own land!”
Her words have sparked outrage, support, and deep concern. Some hail her as a patriot speaking hard truths, while others warn that her rhetoric is dangerously close to inciting violence.
Nhlanhla “Lux” Mohlauli Speaks Out – A Warning from the Past
Once at the forefront of the Operation Dudula movement, anti-crime activist Nhlanhla Lux Mohlauli had previously led the charge against illegal immigration. However, he faced significant backlash, particularly from KZN, where his efforts found little support. Now, as history seems to be repeating itself, Lux warns against violent action:
“I once stood on the frontline, demanding action against illegal immigration, but without the full support of our people, it became an uphill battle. South Africans need to hold the government accountable legally. Violence will not fix this issue—it will only bring destruction.”
His warning, however, appears to be falling on deaf ears as the #MarchinMarch movement gains momentum.
Read | Dudula: How South African anger has focused on foreigners
Tensions Boiling Over: Marching for Justice or Fueling Xenophobia?
Historically, KZN has been less aggressive toward foreign nationals than Gauteng, where past protests have turned deadly. However, the economic strain, unemployment crisis, and growing frustration among South Africans have changed the landscape.
Many South Africans believe they are being pushed out of economic opportunities:
- “Foreigners dominate the informal sector, and South Africans are left begging in their own country,” says Sipho Mthethwa, a street vendor from Durban.
- “The government has failed us. If we don’t take action now, our children will be foreigners in their own land,” argues Thandiwe Nkosi, a community leader in Umlazi.
Foreign nationals, on the other hand, fear for their safety:
- “We are here legally, running businesses that contribute to the economy, but we are being targeted as criminals,” says Ahmed Ali, a Somali businessman.
- “We fled war and poverty to find a better life in South Africa. Now, we live in fear of being attacked,” shares Blessing Chikowore, a Zimbabwean shop owner.
Spaza Shop Takeover? Over 30,000 Foreign Nationals Apply for Registration
Read | Over 7 000 foreigners applied to have their spaza shops registered in Gauteng
Adding fuel to the fire, recent statistics reveal that foreign nationals are making a significant mark in the informal business sector. According to municipal data released on January 31, 2025:
- Out of 82,924 applications to register spaza shops since July 2024, 30,617 were from foreign nationals.
- KZN led with 7,836 applications from foreign nationals, followed by Free State (5,528) and Gauteng (4,933).
- Only 2,586 applications from foreign nationals were approved nationwide, raising concerns about the dominance of foreign-owned businesses.
This data has become ammunition for those supporting the #MarchinMarch movement, who argue that South Africans are being economically sidelined.
Read |Shocking Betrayal: 8-Year Trust Destroyed as Zimbabwean Domestic Worker Turns on Employer in Durban
Awande Sisekelo: “Freedom Cannot Be Negotiated”
Among the growing voices calling for radical action is social media activist Awande Sisekelo, who dismissed peaceful protest as ineffective:
“Marching has never been the solution. Freedom cannot be negotiated; it can only be taken by force. You either waste time and energy marching, or you take your freedom.”
His sentiments have struck a chord with many, further amplifying the call for extreme measures.
Will the Authorities Act Before It’s Too Late?
As #MarchinMarch looms, the burning question remains: Will the government intervene, or will South Africa witness yet another wave of xenophobic violence?
King Misuzulu kaZwelithini issued a stern warning against such actions, emphasizing that foreign nationals contribute to the province’s growth. However, his words may not be enough to calm the rising storm.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether a march is officially planned, but whispers within communities suggest that something big is coming. If it happens, will it be peaceful, or will it spiral into chaos?
What Happens Next? Stay Tuned
This is a developing story. Manica Eye will bring you exclusive updates, breaking news, and on-the-ground reports as the situation unfolds.
➡ What do you think? Should South Africans take matters into their own hands, or is #MarchinMarch a ticking time bomb? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow Manica Eye for real-time updates!
#MarchinMarch #SouthAfricaUnrest #KZNTensions #ImmigrationCrisis
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