The Ethiopian Embassy in South Africa has issued an urgent security advisory to its citizens following a disturbing resurgence of violence and targeted killings against Ethiopians living in various regions of the country. Expressing “deep sorrow” over the physical, material, and psychological toll inflicted by these attacks, the diplomatic mission has called on the Ethiopian diaspora to exercise extreme caution and heightened vigilance as xenophobic sentiments continue to simmer across several South African provinces.
The embassy’s statement highlights a significant escalation in “anti-black African immigrant movements,” noting that the recent wave of hostility has increasingly targeted foreign nationals in a systematic manner. In response to these credible threats, the embassy has officially petitioned the South African government to fulfill its international obligations by providing adequate security for Ethiopian residents. The mission also demanded an immediate legal investigation into recent fatalities, urging local law enforcement to bring the perpetrators of these “brutal acts” to justice and share the findings of their inquiries with the embassy without delay.
In terms of proactive diplomatic measures, the embassy confirmed it has held discussions with South African security agencies, who have reportedly issued directives to law enforcement personnel to address the unrest. To ensure a sustained response, the Ethiopian mission has requested formal dialogue platforms with South African institutions and influential individuals. These forums aim to address the root causes of the violence and establish a collaborative framework for the long-term protection of the Ethiopian community, ensuring that further loss of life is prevented through specialized police presence in high-risk zones.
Internally, the embassy is mobilizing community leaders, religious figures, and prominent academics to foster a unified front among the diaspora. Ethiopian residents are being strongly advised to move away from isolation and instead strengthen their bonds of cooperation, not only with fellow countrymen but also with migrants from other African nations. This collective approach is intended to enhance communal security and psychological resilience during what the embassy describes as an “extremely difficult period.”
To facilitate legal accountability and immediate intervention, the embassy has instructed its citizens to gather and organize evidence of any harassment or violence they witness and report these incidents immediately to diplomatic channels. By working closely with local administrative and security structures, the embassy hopes to create a network of information-sharing that can mitigate risks. The mission reaffirmed its commitment to standing by its citizens until the security situation stabilizes, emphasizing that unity and cooperation are the primary tools for survival in the current climate.