Hundreds of anti-immigration protesters marched through central Pretoria on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, intensifying demonstrations that have spread across South Africa and prompted some migrants to flee amid fears of violence.
Protesters gathered at Church Square in Pretoria’s central business district before marching to the Sunnyside Police Station, clad in traditional Zulu warrior attire with bows, arrows, and spears.
Others were also seen hoisting the South African flag, while they chanted and sang songs to draw attention to the protest.
The group has been demanding stronger action against illegal immigration and stricter enforcement of immigration laws, and the demonstrations are part of a broader wave of anti-immigration protests taking place in several parts of the country, reflecting growing public frustration over illegal migration, unemployment, and pressure on public services.
In Rustenburg, in South Africa’s North West province, some businesses remained closed as a precaution while marches were underway.
Business owners cited security concerns and the possibility of unrest as reasons for suspending operations.
The protests have heightened anxiety among migrant communities, with reports indicating that some foreign nationals have fled affected areas, fearing intimidation or possible attacks.
In the case of Ghana, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa urged citizens to remain indoors and avoid opening their businesses as the mission prepares to undertake another evacuation exercise next week amid rising anti-immigrant tensions in the country.
In a public advisory video, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie urged Ghanaian nationals to stay at the various accommodations arranged by the High Commission and avoid unnecessary movement as authorities monitor the security situation amid the June 30 unofficial deadline for foreigners to leave.
He said another repatriation exercise would be undertaken next week and assured Ghanaians that details of the evacuation would be communicated in due course.
South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of anti-immigrant sentiment over the years, often driven by economic hardship, high unemployment, and perceptions that undocumented migrants are competing with locals for jobs and public resources.
Authorities have deployed police to monitor the demonstrations and maintain public order, while urging protesters to remain peaceful and avoid acts of violence or intimidation.
No immediate reports of widespread violence or arrests had been confirmed at the time of reporting, although officials continue to monitor the situation as protests unfold across the country.
