KUCHALO EDITOTIAL
For decades, South Africa has represented hope and opportunity for many Africans seeking work, education and a better life.
Thousands of Zambians crossed the border believing that Africa’s most industrialised economy would offer them security and dignity. Many have built honest lives there, working hard and contributing positively to society.
But recent events suggest that the environment is becoming increasingly dangerous for foreign nationals, and Zambians should not assume they will remain untouched.
The latest wave of xenophobic tensions sweeping across South Africa has already seen citizens from several African countries threatened, attacked and humiliated.
Governments such as Nigeria and Ghana have begun evacuating their nationals while others have warned citizens to stay indoors and avoid public spaces.
Videos circulating online show foreigners being questioned in streets, forced to produce documents and openly told they are not welcome.
Although Zambians have not yet been widely targeted, history teaches us that xenophobic violence does not choose victims carefully.
Once public anger and mob mentality take hold, nationality often becomes irrelevant. What starts with one group quickly spreads to anyone perceived as foreign.
That is why this is not the time for complacency.
Many Zambians in South Africa may feel protected because they have legal papers, stable jobs or peaceful communities. Unfortunately, during periods of unrest, legality alone does not guarantee safety. Innocent people can easily become targets simply because of their accent, appearance or nationality.
The warning signs are already there.
South Africa is facing deep economic frustrations, high unemployment and growing public anger over immigration. Foreign nationals are increasingly being blamed for problems created by economic inequality, poor governance and lack of opportunities. In such an atmosphere, tensions can escalate rapidly and without warning.
Zambia must also begin preparing for the possible return of its citizens. Government authorities should strengthen embassy support, monitor the situation closely and develop contingency plans in case conditions worsen.
Community organisations and churches should also help returning citizens reintegrate and rebuild their lives at home.
There is no shame in choosing safety over uncertainty.
The painful truth is that no economic opportunity is worth risking one’s life. Zambians living in South Africa should seriously consider returning home while travel routes remain open and conditions are still manageable.
Waiting until violence becomes widespread could make escape far more difficult.
Africa cannot continue preaching unity while Africans live in fear of one another. But until that dream becomes reality, prudence must prevail.
For many Zambians in South Africa, the safest decision may now be the hardest one: it may be time to come home.