People from migrant rights groups demonstrate on Africa Day, protesting against xenophobia, in Cape Town, South Africa, on Monday. ESA ALEXANDER/REUTERS
JOHANNESBURG — South Africa on Monday marked Africa Day amid renewed concerns over xenophobia, as the government called for African unity and condemned violence against foreign nationals.
Speaking at celebrations held at Moruleng Stadium in North West Province, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie rejected claims that South Africa is xenophobic, while acknowledging growing public frustration over illegal immigration.
The event took place as tensions over the treatment of foreign nationals continued to attract attention across the continent.
South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola on Saturday reiterated the government's opposition to attacks against migrants, saying the government remained firmly opposed to any attacks targeting foreign nationals.
