NEWS
Patrick Lumumba Demands South Africa Apologise Over Xenophobic Attacks, Calls for Compensation for Victims
Renowned Pan-Africanist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, has strongly condemned the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the South African government to issue a public apology to Africa and the international community while compensating victims who lost their businesses and means of livelihood.
Lumumba made the remarks while speaking on the sidelines of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, where he described the attacks as a serious betrayal of the ideals of African unity and solidarity.
According to him, the violence directed at fellow Africans undermines the vision of a united continent and threatens the spirit of brotherhood that has long been championed across Africa. He stressed that Africans should reject retaliation and instead embrace compassion and understanding as the most effective way to overcome the growing wave of xenophobia.
The respected scholar maintained that responding to hatred with more hatred would only deepen divisions, while love and mutual respect could help transform the mindset of those promoting xenophobic sentiments and strengthen relationships among African nations.
Beyond the issue of xenophobia, Lumumba also turned his attention to Africa’s economic future, calling on governments, policymakers and investors across the continent to place greater confidence in Africa’s vast natural resources, skilled workforce and entrepreneurial potential.
He urged African nations to increase investment within the continent, arguing that stronger intra-African investments would accelerate industrialisation, generate millions of jobs and reduce Africa’s dependence on foreign capital for economic growth.
Lumumba further advocated the adoption of a common African currency, describing it as a crucial step towards deeper economic integration. He noted that a unified currency would promote trade among African countries, strengthen regional cooperation and accelerate sustainable economic development across the continent.
His comments come amid renewed concerns over xenophobic violence in South Africa, with many African leaders and stakeholders continuing to call for stronger measures to protect foreign nationals and preserve the ideals of African unity an
d cooperation.