South African faith leaders respond to prolonged anti-migrant violence

NAIROBI, Kenya (RNS) — After nearly two months of sustained anti-migrant unrest across parts of South Africa, Christian leaders are intensifying efforts to calm tensions, support displaced communities and discourage vigilante violence that has pushed more than 160,000 foreign nationals to leave the country.

The violence, which began weeks ago and has persisted in waves across several provinces, has included protests, intimidation and attacks targeting undocumented migrants. While some demonstrations have remained peaceful, others have turned deadly. According to figures compiled by AFP from governments repatriating their citizens, at least 12 people have died during the unrest.

Religious leaders say they have been steadily engaging communities, issuing pastoral guidance and providing humanitarian assistance as the crisis has unfolded.

At a recent Global Day of Prayer event, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of the global Pentecostal ministry Christ Embassy, reiterated calls he and other faith leaders have made over recent weeks for restraint and respect for the rule of law.

“Don’t destroy your own country while you’re thinking that you’re trying to save it from…