Gateway News volunteer reporter Ndileka Aboagye appeals to SA Christians to let faith lead where fear divides. “This is not a political view but a faith stand,” she says.
Once again, South Africa finds itself in the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Reports of violence against African foreign nationals have resurfaced, placing the nation at a painful crossroads. In recent weeks, waves of xenophobic attacks have fractured communities, disrupted lives, and left fear lingering in spaces that should feel like home.
Foreign nationals, many of whom came seeking refuge, opportunity, or simply a chance at survival — have become targets of anger, suspicion, and hostility.
Much of this hostility, many South Africans argue, stems from deep frustrations around governance and leadership. Movements opposed to undocumented immigration, such as Operation Dudula and March and March have gained traction, with supporters claiming that there are insufficient systems in place to protect the livelihoods of SA citizens. They point to overwhelmed public services such as healthcare, education, and housing — and argue that the system is buckling under pressure.
At its core, this crisis is not merely political or social; it is deeply spiritual. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
While these concerns reflect real socioeconomic challenges, the violence and bloodshed we are witnessing cannot be justified. We need to deal head-on with our governance and laws, making sure that citezens are prioritised and their welfare is not compromised by corruption or “cool drink money”[bribes].
These concerns also expose underlying wounds: inequality, unemployment, frustration, and unresolved historical pain. When these wounds remain unhealed, they often manifest destructively, turning neighbour against neighbour and brother against brother.
In a recent address during a meeting with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating that the SA government must ensure the safety of foreign nationals while also addressing the concerns of its citizens.
Some have framed these attacks as acts of self-hate among African people. But I believe there is something deeper at work. These are not just social eruptions; they are spiritually charged moments that call for discernment and intervention from the Body of Christ.
Now, more than ever, the Church must rise.
SA has been carried through many defining moments in history, and God has remained faithful. Scripture reminds us of His promise: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
Yet, today the nation is hurting.
For many South Africans who travel beyond our borders, there is a growing sense of shame attached to how our country is perceived. I recall a conversation with a fellow African believer I met at a church in the United States. He asked me: “Why are South Africans like this?” Though rhetorical, the question pierced deeply. In that moment I was not “proudly South African”; I felt the weight of a narrative that does not fully reflect the SA I know; a nation rooted in Ubuntu, in shared humanity, and in dignity.
As the Body of Christ, we are called to respond differently.
Isaiah 61:8 clearly says: “For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing. In my faithfulness I will reward my people and make an everlasting covenant with them.” We serve a God who welcomes, restores, and calls His people to be agents of peace.
Xenophobia stands in direct opposition to the Gospel. It denies the truth that every person is made in the image of God. It forgets that many of us — or our ancestors — have been strangers in foreign lands. And it blinds us to the reality that unity, not division, is God’s design.
This is why the Church must not remain silent.
In an article that was published in Gateway News on March 21 2019, I reported on how Pastor Daan Botha was advocating boldly for Christians to stand up and use their voting rights to influence governmental structures. He stated that the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven – including the realm of prayer, worship and discipling nations — have been given to the Church by Jesus. (Matthew 16:19).
With that in mind, we must rise — not in condemnation, but in intercession.
We must pray for:
- Healing in communities torn apart by violence and mistrust
- Wisdom for leaders to address the root causes of inequality and unrest
- Protection for the vulnerable, especially foreign nationals living in fear
- Conviction and transformation in the hearts of those driven by anger and hatred
- Unity across nations, tribes, and cultures within our borders
Prayer is not passive — it is powerful. It shifts atmospheres, softens hearts, and invites God’s intervention where human solutions fall short.
But prayer must also lead to action.
Let the Church become a refuge for the vulnerable. Let us open our doors, extend our hands, and use our voices to speak peace. Let us challenge harmful narratives, educate our communities, and embody Christ’s love in practical, visible ways.
SA Africa belongs to all who live in it, not only by law, but through shared humanity. We can never justify shedding blood of another person because of their nationality. And as believers, we are reminded that our ultimate citizenship is in Heaven — where there is no division of nationality, race, or status.
This is a defining moment for the Body of Christ.
When fear rises, let faith respond boldly.
When division spreads, let love stand firm.
And when the world grows louder with anger, let the Church grow louder in prayer; silence the voice of the enemy.
May we be found faithful.
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