MTN Chairman Says Government Failures, Not Foreigners, Are Behind South Africa’s Xenophobia

MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas has strongly condemned the growing wave of xenophobia in South Africa, warning that blaming foreign nationals will not solve the country’s economic and social challenges.

Speaking at the funeral of Zimbabwean-born activist and public servant Thokozani Damasane, Jonas said South Africa’s future is closely tied to the rest of the African continent and urged citizens to reject narratives that portray migrants as the source of the country’s problems.

“South Africa is nothing without Africa, and Africa is nothing without South Africa,” he said.

Politicians Accused of Fueling Anti-Immigrant Sentiment

Jonas argued that public frustration over unemployment, crime and poor service delivery stems largely from failures in governance rather than the presence of foreign nationals.

According to him, weak border management, ineffective law enforcement, corruption and poor public administration have created conditions that some politicians exploit by directing public anger toward immigrants instead of addressing the real issues.

He warned that using migrants as political scapegoats only deepens social divisions without providing lasting solutions.

Xenophobia Will Not Solve South Africa’s Problems

The MTN chairman stressed that even if all foreign nationals left South Africa, many of the country’s longstanding problems would remain.

MTN CHAIRMAN MR JONAS

He noted that unemployment, inequality, corruption and failing public institutions require meaningful policy reforms rather than hostility toward migrants.

Jonas also called on South Africans to reject tribalism and ethnic politics, describing them as divisions that continue to undermine African unity.

Remarks Come Amid Renewed Tensions

His comments come at a time of heightened tensions over immigration in South Africa, where anti-foreigner protests and attacks have forced thousands of migrants to flee their homes or seek repatriation to neighbouring countries. Authorities have increased security ahead of planned demonstrations amid fears of further violence.

The debate has drawn widespread attention across Africa, with governments and rights groups expressing concern over the safety of foreign nationals living in South Africa.

Call for African Unity

Jonas concluded by urging South Africans to remember the country’s historical ties with the rest of the continent, noting that many African nations supported South Africa during the struggle against apartheid.

He said lasting progress would depend on stronger institutions, responsible leadership and greater continental cooperation rather than division based on nationality or ethnicity.

His remarks have since generated widespread discussion across social media and political circles, with many praising his call for unity while others continue to debate South Africa’s immigration policies.