The barbaric attacks on foreigners working or running businesses in South Africa are a tragic betrayal of the ideals that once united the African continent.
It is deeply disturbing that hardworking Africans, including many Kenyans, are being forced to abandon their livelihoods and return home because of fear, violence and hostility.
No grievance, whether economic or social, can justify targeting innocent people whose only "crime" is seeking an honest chance to make a living.
South Africa's history is intertwined with the solidarity of brotherly African nations. In the struggle against apartheid, countries across the continent, including Kenya, stood firmly with the South African people. That spirit of brotherhood should not be forgotten.
Instead of turning against fellow Africans, South Africans should channel their energy into building a stronger economy and a more united continent where talent, trade and cooperation flourish.
Moreover, South Africans must remember that millions of their own citizens live, work, study and do business beyond their borders. They, too, depend on the goodwill and hospitality of other nations. The respect they expect abroad should be the same respect they extend to foreigners at home.
Africa's future lies in unity, not division. Xenophobia weakens the continent, while solidarity strengthens it. The time has come for South Africa to reject hatred and embrace the pan-African values that promise prosperity and dignity for all.
Quote of the day: “If you hate a person, you hate something in him that is part of yourself. What isn’t part of ourselves doesn’t disturb us.” —German-Swiss novelist, poet and Nobel laureate Hermann Hesse was born on July 2, 1877
