MWE Correspondent
As tensions rise in South Africa following reports of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, the government of Tanzania has confirmed that no Tanzanian citizens have been affected by the ongoing unrest.
In recent days, social media platforms have been flooded with images and videos showing groups opposing immigration reportedly attacking and chasing foreign nationals. The footage has sparked widespread concern, intense debate, and mixed reactions online, with many users questioning the safety of migrants in affected areas.
However, in an official statement released on Monday, April 27, 2026, and published on its communication platforms, Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs moved to reassure the public, stating that all Tanzanian nationals in South Africa remain safe.
The ministry said that reports claiming Tanzanians had been targeted were inaccurate and based on misleading content circulating online. It further clarified that some of the videos being shared as recent incidents were in fact old recordings dating back to 2023, which had been re-edited and falsely linked to the current situation.
“The ministry assures the Tanzanian public that video clips being circulated on social media, allegedly showing a Tanzanian citizen being attacked in South Africa, are misleading and deliberately spread by individuals with ill intentions,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, the Tanzanian embassy in South Africa has been actively engaging with Tanzanian community leaders across all nine provinces of the country. These consultations, officials said, confirmed that no Tanzanian nationals have been attacked due to their nationality during the current wave of unrest.
Also Read; US–Iran Peace Talks Collapse Amid Rising Tensions
The embassy’s outreach is part of broader diplomatic efforts aimed at monitoring the safety and welfare of Tanzanians living abroad, particularly during periods of heightened social tension. Officials emphasized that communication channels with diaspora communities remain open and active.
Authorities also urged members of the public and social media users to exercise caution when sharing information online, warning that unverified content can fuel panic and spread misinformation. The ministry stressed the importance of confirming facts through official sources before circulating sensitive material.
The situation in South Africa has drawn international attention amid renewed concerns over xenophobic violence, a recurring issue that has previously led to strained relations between local communities and foreign nationals in various parts of the country. Observers note that such incidents often trigger regional concern due to the large number of African migrants living and working in South Africa.
Despite the current reports of unrest, Tanzanian officials maintain that the situation for their nationals remains stable and under continuous monitoring. They have encouraged citizens in South Africa to remain calm while staying in contact with diplomatic missions for updates and assistance if needed.
