South African Entrepreneur Challenges Xenophobia Narrative in Nigeria
South African entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo challenged global media narratives portraying South Africa as broadly hostile to foreigners during The Platform Nigeria's 2026 Workers' Day commemoration. 'Contrary to what you see in the media, South Africans are not xenophobic,' said Thembekwayo, founder and CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, while acknowledging xenophobia exists in parts of society.
Nigerian businesses have frequently been targeted in South African xenophobic violence, highlighting tensions in economically strained communities. Thembekwayo emphasized the country's diversity—60 million people with 11 official languages—as evidence of coexistence rather than division.
The entrepreneur called for increased community dialogue and urged citizens to 'reach across the divide,' suggesting religious organizations could serve as reconciliation platforms. 'We as a people have to do better,' he stated. 'Dragging each other down, fighting each other, calling each other names, it has to stop at some point.'
How should Nigerian businesses balance economic opportunities in South Africa with the risks of xenophobic targeting, and what practical steps can be taken to strengthen pan-African economic solidarity?