South Africa: Tale of a ‘Dangerous’ Beauty

There is something undeniably magnetic about South Africa. It is a country of sweeping contrasts — where mountains meet oceans, vineyards stretch beneath dramatic skies, and cities shimmer with global ambition.

In Pretoria, jacaranda-lined streets bloom purple in season, offering a serene administrative capital with quiet elegance.

Cape Town, with the iconic Table Mountain standing guard, is frequently ranked among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Then there is Durban, warm and vibrant, famous for its Golden Mile beachfront, its rich cultural fusion, and a surf culture that draws enthusiasts from across continents.

At a glance, South Africa feels like a window into African glamour — a blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and natural splendour. It evokes, in different corners, the polish of London, the orderliness of Zurich, the ambition of New York City, and the romance of Paris.

It is no surprise that the country became the first on the continent to host the FIFA World Cup, a historic moment that showcased its infrastructure, hospitality, and global appeal. Universities attract students from across Africa and beyond, while international institutions continue to expand their presence within their borders.

But beneath the glittering skyline and postcard beaches lies a more troubling narrative. Crime remains a persistent shadow over the nation’s image. Violent attacks, robberies, and targeted assaults have increasingly raised concerns, particularly among foreign nationals. For members of the Nigerian community living in South Africa, this fear is becoming a daily reality.

Memories of past xenophobic violence, notably in 2008, 2015 and 2019, during which Nigerians were attacked, businesses looted, and properties destroyed, still linger. These ugly incidents strained relations between Nigeria and South Africa diplomatically.

Today, renewed incidents have again cast a spotlight on the safety of Nigerians in the country.

The recent killings of Emeka Uzor in Windsor East, Randburg, Johannesburg, and 22-year-old e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat in Pretoria West have intensified grief and anxiety within the Nigerian community in South Africa.

Reports surrounding these attacks have stirred fresh debates about security, xenophobia, and the urgent need for stronger protections.