HAS SOUTH AFRICA FORGOTTEN ZAMBIA’S SACRIFICE?
(XENOPHOBIA REIGNITES QUESTIONS OVER ZAMBIA’S SACRIFICES FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S FREEDOM)
By ZR Reporter
As anti-immigrant tensions continue to simmer in South Africa, many Zambians are asking a difficult question: how did a country that once relied heavily on Zambia’s solidarity during the struggle against apartheid become a place where fellow Africans now fear for their safety?
The latest wave of anti-foreigner protests has targeted migrants from several African countries, including Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Zambia. In some communities, foreign nationals have reported intimidation, threats and being forced from their homes, while concerns have also spread through the transport sector, where cross-border truck drivers have become increasingly anxious about their safety.
The unrest has not gone unnoticed in Zambia. In recent weeks, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has urged Zambians living in or travelling to South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid areas experiencing unrest, carry valid travel and immigration documents at all times and register with the Zambian High Commission in Pretoria. The Government has also facilitated the voluntary return of more than 100 Zambian nationals who opted to come back home as tensions escalated.
For many Zambians, however, the current situation is particularly painful because of the deep historical ties that bind the two countries.
Long before South Africa became a democratic nation, Zambia stood firmly behind the liberation struggle. Under the leadership of the late President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia opened its borders to thousands of South African political exiles and freedom fighters at a time when doing so exposed the country to economic hardship and security threats.
When the African National Congress (ANC) was banned by the apartheid government, Lusaka became the movement’s political headquarters in exile.
