Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambian government has issued an urgent advisory to its nationals living in South Africa, as fresh reports of xenophobic violence and tensions targeting foreign nationals in that country continue to generate alarm across migrant communities on the continent.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, in a press release dated May 31, 2026, said it is actively monitoring the situation and has been in direct contact with the Gambian Mission in Pretoria to ensure the safety and welfare of Gambians resident in South Africa.
“The Ministry remains in close contact with the relevant South African authorities, as well as representatives of the Gambian community, while closely monitoring developments on the ground,” the statement read.
While the Ministry did not specify the number of Gambians currently residing in South Africa or detail any particular incidents involving Gambian nationals, its decision to issue a formal advisory signals the gravity with which Banjul is treating the unfolding situation.
South Africa has long been home to a significant community of West African migrants, including Gambians, many of whom live and work in major cities such as Johannesburg and Cape Town.
The Ministry acknowledged that the South African government has officially condemned the xenophobic violence and reaffirmed its constitutional obligation to protect all persons within its borders, regardless of nationality.
Banjul said it welcomed that commitment but made clear it would continue to watch developments closely.
In the advisory, Gambian nationals in South Africa are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and security-conscious at all times and to avoid areas affected by demonstrations, protests, or public disturbances.
They are also being advised to refrain from engaging in any confrontations, keep their travel and identification documents valid and readily accessible, and maintain regular communication with family members and trusted community networks.
Critically, Gambians are being encouraged to stay in close contact with the Gambian Mission in Pretoria for updates, guidance, and consular assistance.
“The Gambian Mission in Pretoria will continue to assess developments and provide the necessary consular support and assistance to Gambian citizens as required,” the Ministry stated, adding that additional measures may be considered should circumstances deteriorate further.
Xenophobia has been a recurring and deeply troubling phenomenon in South Africa, with periodic outbreaks of violence against African migrants causing deaths, displacement, and the destruction of livelihoods.
Critics have long argued that the South African government has not done enough to address the root causes of anti-immigrant sentiment, which is often fueled by high unemployment, inequality, and political rhetoric scapegoating foreigners.
For many Gambian families back home, the news from South Africa brings painful anxiety. Remittances from Gambians in the diaspora remain a critical lifeline for thousands of households across the country, making the safety and stability of communities like those in South Africa not merely a diplomatic concern but a deeply personal one.
The Gambian government closed its statement with a firm reiteration of its commitment to the protection of citizens abroad, calling for “calm, restraint, tolerance, respect for human dignity, and adherence to the rule of law.”
Gambians in South Africa in need of consular assistance are advised to reach out to the Gambian Mission in Pretoria as soon as possible.
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