The Director-General of the World Health Organisation, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has appealed for an immediate end to xenophobic violence in South Africa, warning that the attacks are costing lives and undermining the spirit of African unity.
In a strongly worded statement, Dr Tedros expressed deep concern over recent incidents targeting foreign nationals, which have reportedly resulted in multiple deaths and forced thousands of people to flee their homes.
Describing the situation as heartbreaking, the WHO chief said the violence had claimed the lives of several Ethiopian and Mozambican nationals while leaving many others displaced and fearful for their safety.
Dr Tedros stressed that violence against migrants and foreign nationals cannot be justified and urged authorities and communities to resolve grievances through legal and democratic processes rather than through attacks and intimidation.
He also reflected on the historic solidarity shown by African nations during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, noting that countries across the continent stood together in support of freedom and justice.
According to him, Ethiopia was among the nations that supported the liberation movement led by former South African President Nelson Mandela, highlighting the long-standing bonds that have existed among African countries.
The WHO Director-General argued that the current wave of xenophobic attacks contradicts the values of unity, cooperation and mutual support that helped shape Africa’s liberation history.
He called on South Africans to protect vulnerable individuals and reject hatred, emphasizing that the rule of law must prevail over vigilantism and collective punishment.
As concerns grow over the humanitarian impact of the violence, Dr Tedros urged citizens, community leaders and authorities to work together to safeguard lives and preserve the principles of tolerance and coexistence.
“South Africa deserves better. Africa deserves better,” he said, calling for compassion and a renewed commitment to shared humanity across the continent.
