PoliticsAfrica
Are African migrants safe in South Africa?
30:00
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South Africa’s unemployment crisis has once again reignited fierce debates about migrants, xenophobia and economic justice. But are African migrants really responsible for rising unemployment, crime and pressure on public services — or are deeper political and economic problems being ignored?
In this episode of Under the Baobab, we speak with Mametlwe Sebei, president of the General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA), about why many African migrants live in fear — despite having legal status. We examine the economic realities behind migration, the role of politicians in shaping public opinion, and whether trade unions can help end xenophobic violence
- Are migrants taking South Africans’ jobs?
- What do the data actually say?
- Why has anti-migrant sentiment grown?
- Are politicians using migrants as scapegoats?
- Can trade unions help stop xenophobia?
- What should African governments do differently?
We also hear from ordinary South Africans and respond to comments from our audience as we continue one of the continent’s most important conversations
• Hosts: George Okachi and Mimi Mefo Newuh
• Guest: Mametlwe Sebei, president of the General Industries Workers Union of South Africa – GIWUSA
• Vox Pops: Thuso Khumalo (Johannesburg)
• Technical Team: Tim Lehmann, Andreas Riedel and Elias Kys
• Video Editor: Christian Murk
• Producers: Wanjiku Mwaura, Silja Fröhlich, Okeri Ngutjinazo, Bouba Jalloh and Eunice Wanjiru
• Executive Producer: Asumpta Lattus
