MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas has condemned the rise in anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, attributing it to state failure and accusing some politicians of exploiting the issue for political gain rather than pursuing lasting solutions.
Jonas said persistent challenges, including unemployment, crime, and poor service delivery, have created an environment in which migrants are unfairly blamed for problems rooted in governance failures. He argued that directing public frustration at foreign nationals would not address the country’s underlying issues.
He warned that inflammatory political rhetoric risks deepening divisions and weakening social cohesion, urging leaders to focus instead on improving governance, creating jobs, and strengthening public institutions.
Jonas also noted that South Africa has benefited from migration, with foreign nationals contributing through entrepreneurship, investment, and skilled labour. He cautioned that hostility toward immigrants could harm the country’s international reputation and discourage investment at a time when economic recovery remains a priority.
His remarks come amid renewed debate over immigration and growing concerns about recurring incidents of xenophobic violence in parts of South Africa.
