Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has strongly condemned the recent xenophobic attacks against nationals of other African countries in South Africa, warning that the violence threatens the ideals of African unity and human dignity.
In a statement issued from Accra on May 6, the continental Catholic body expressed concern over rising social tensions and attacks targeting African migrants residing in South Africa.
SECAM also declared solidarity with the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), commending the conference for speaking out against discrimination and xenophobia directed at migrants.
The organisation sympathised with victims of the violence and their families, stating that the attacks undermine African brotherhood and solidarity.
Referencing the biblical question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” from the Book of Genesis, SECAM stressed that every individual is created in God’s image and therefore deserves dignity and respect irrespective of nationality, ethnicity or migration status.
According to the bishops, attacks on foreigners not only violate fundamental human rights but also contradict the principles of Pan-Africanism, Ubuntu and the African Renaissance.
While acknowledging the right of sovereign states to regulate migration, SECAM maintained that migrants also have a responsibility to obey the laws and customs of their host countries.
The Catholic body called on the South African government to urgently adopt concrete measures to protect all residents within its territory and ensure justice for victims of the attacks.
It urged authorities to carry out impartial investigations, prosecute those responsible for the violence, halt acts of vigilantism and strengthen state institutions responsible for security.
SECAM also appealed to the African Union to intensify efforts aimed at preventing xenophobic violence and enforcing continental human rights frameworks.
“The credibility of Africa, which aspires to become a key player on the international stage, is at stake,” the statement noted.
The bishops further called on Africans to reject hate speech, violence and divisive narratives capable of fueling hostility among African communities.
Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of the Good Samaritan, SECAM urged Africans to embrace dialogue, peaceful coexistence and solidarity across the continent.
The statement was signed by Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM, who assured victims of the violence of the Church’s spiritual and pastoral support.
“You are not alone; we will never abandon you,” the statement said.
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