Impact of Xenophobia Attacks in South Africa on Regional Integration Agenda

The concept of regional integration has been long adopted in Africa. Regional integration is a feasible alternative to bring about the much required development in a combined work and result basis. While some activities have indicated a unified states, some like xenophobia derails integration progress. South Africa is a member of the African Union, which recognizes eight regional blocs to ensure an integrated Africa. South Africa belongs to the SADC regional bloc with sixteen nations to date. South Africa over the years have been ranked best on many development indicators, and many countries have been drawing lessons of development from the leading nation. The recurrence of issues of xenophobia are greatly impacting the nation to lead regional integration agenda. South Africa has experienced extensive xenophobic violence on various occasions. The role of xenophobia as a hindrance to Africa's integration has not been recognised and acknowledged. Tracing back from 1994, postapartheid, violent attacks against migrants and refugees has been rising. Attacks caused loss of lives, injury, livelihood loss and irreparable property damage each time they occur. Action is required to end these prejudicial and intolerant practices. South Africa, just like other African countries should realize that it is weak in the international arena. Strength is brought about by integration. There should be no chance for isolation to enable progress in development. Disintegrative approaches to problem solving should be abandoned while emphasis is made on the importance and benefits of integrative or multilateralism approaches. Government has to completely eliminate the climate of impunity that makes foreigners appear to be unequal before the law