We can't fix SA xenophobia without addressing its apartheid past - Suhuyini

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team, Hamza Suhuyini, has weighed in on the growing debates over xenophobic attacks.

He argued that South Africa’s unique historical experience must be considered when analysing the issue.

Speaking on the AM Show on April 23, 2026, Suhuyini cautioned against treating South Africa like any other African country, noting that its colonial and apartheid past has had a lasting psychological and social impact on its citizens.

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“The truth of the matter is that South Africa is not just like any other African country. Their experiences, as far as the colonial era is concerned, even till now, are not something we can simply sweep under the carpet,” he said.

He referenced the book 'Africa: Altered States, Ordinary Miracles' by Richard Dowden, which documents the country’s complex history and social realities.

According to Suhuyini, the nature of colonialism in South Africa was distinct and more entrenched than in many other parts of the continent.

“If you look at the nature of colonialism that took place in South Africa, it defies logic. It was not the ordinary colonialism experienced elsewhere in Africa. It was at another level,” he noted.

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He further argued that decades of systemic segregation under Apartheid created deep-rooted divisions and a culture of isolation that continues to influence societal attitudes.

“These are people whose identity and psychological setup is rooted in isolationism and division. For years, they were conditioned to accept separation,” he explained.

He added that such enduring effects cannot be ignored in current discussions.

His comments come amid renewed concerns over xenophobia, following the circulation of a viral video showing some South African nationals confronting a Ghanaian over his right to stay in the country.

Watch video below

Xenophobic attacks: South Africa is not like any other African country; its experiences during the colonial era cannot be swept under the carpet.

- Hamza Suhuyini, Lawyer and Member, NDC Communications teamhttps://t.co/cgoQnzXZUE#AMShow | #JoyNews pic.twitter.com/PvJYuPLaRE

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) April 23, 2026

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