African Catholic Bishops condemn xenophobic attacks in South Africa

Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has condemned the recent wave of xenophobic violence targeting nationals of other African countries in South Africa, describing the attacks as a grave violation of human dignity and African solidarity.

In a statement issued from Accra on May 6, SECAM expressed deep concern over the growing social tensions and violent attacks against African migrants living in South Africa.

The continental Catholic body also declared solidarity with the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) for what it described as the conference’s “prophetic stance” in defending migrants affected by discrimination and xenophobia.

SECAM extended sympathy to victims of the violence and their families, noting that the attacks undermine the principles of African unity and brotherhood.

Quoting the biblical passage, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” from the Book of Genesis, the organisation stressed that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore possesses inherent dignity regardless of nationality, tribe, culture or migration status.

According to the statement, violence against foreigners represents not only an assault on human rights but also a rejection of the ideals of Pan-Africanism, Ubuntu and the African Renaissance.

The organisation, however, acknowledged the right of states to regulate migration, while insisting that migrants also have a responsibility to obey the laws and customs of their host countries.

SECAM called on the South African government to urgently implement concrete and sustainable measures to protect all persons residing within its territory.

It urged authorities to conduct impartial investigations into the attacks, prosecute perpetrators, end vigilante actions and reinforce the authority of the state.

The body also appealed to the African Union to strengthen mechanisms for preventing xenophobic violence and ensure effective enforcement of African human rights instruments.

“The credibility of Africa, which aspires to become a key player on the international stage, is at stake,” the statement said.

SECAM further urged Africans to reject hate speech, violence and divisive rhetoric capable of fueling hostility among African peoples.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of the Good Samaritan, the Catholic body called for renewed commitment to dialogue, solidarity and peaceful coexistence across the continent.

The statement was signed by Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM, who assured victims of the violence of the Church’s spiritual and pastoral support.

“You are not alone; we will never abandon you,” the statement concluded.