The President of Tanzania has reportedly ordered all citizens of South Africa to leave the country within 48 hours, in a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions following renewed xenophobic violence.
The directive comes in response to growing reports of attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, which have sparked outrage across the African continent. In addition to the evacuation order, Tanzania has announced the immediate suspension of all air travel and trade relations with South Africa.
In a strongly worded national address, the Tanzanian President criticized the South African government for what he described as a failure to protect African migrants.
He accused South Africa of “forgetting the support received during the struggle for independence,” referencing the role many African nations, including Tanzania, played during the anti-apartheid era.
“Our children are being humiliated in a country that once sheltered exiles who fought against apartheid,” the President said, expressing frustration over what he called continued inaction by South African authorities.
The move is expected to have significant economic and diplomatic repercussions, as both nations have maintained longstanding trade and political ties.
Analysts warn that the suspension of bilateral relations could disrupt regional cooperation within Africa and heighten tensions among member states.
As of now, officials in South Africa have yet to issue a formal response to the developments.
Observers across the continent are closely monitoring the situation, with calls growing for urgent dialogue to prevent further escalation.
