Don't Loot and Destroy Tuckshops in South Africa Start Yours

Posted on: https://www.makumbirofafarms.co.za/2026/08/27/dont-loot-and-destroy-tuckshops-in-south-africa-start-yours/

Bernadette Pylman Scharneck, your comments are dangerously misleading. The issues facing South Africa are complex and cannot be reduced to simple blame. The derogatory names like “Makwere kwere” and “Zai Zai” are rooted in deep-seated xenophobia and ignite violence against vulnerable foreigners. Why are foreigners being targeted with violence? Why are tuckshops being looted? Why are innocent immigrants being beaten simply because of their origin? These acts of hatred and violence are evil and must be condemned in the strongest terms.

The root causes of unemployment and poverty in South Africa are not foreign nationals. Countries like Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Israel also have their own issues with illegal immigrants, yet they do not experience the level of violence and hatred seen here. The chapter of hatred and violence in South Africa is destructive, and it threatens the future of our children. It is morally wrong to scapegoat foreigners for socio-economic problems that require systemic solutions, not mob justice.

Both white and black South Africans are not the original owners of this land. Our ancestors arrived here without proper documentation, just as many immigrants do today. This does not justify violence, looting, or vigilantism. Immigration issues must be managed by law enforcement, not bloodthirsty mobs. Mob justice is a sign of moral decay, not justice. Stoning a Malawian immigrant or burning the belongings of vulnerable foreigners does nothing to improve our society or create opportunities.

Somalian tuckshop owners are not preventing South Africans from starting their own businesses. Instead of violence, we should encourage entrepreneurship, learning, and healthy competition. This will lead to better services and more choices for our communities. The path forward is not through destruction, but through unity, understanding, and lawful action.

I am encouraged to see many South Africans recognizing the destructive consequences of xenophobia, mob violence, and scapegoating. We must reject hatred and work together to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all who live in South Africa.

By Collen Makumbirofa 
Makumbirofa Farms 
www.makumbirofafarms.co.za 
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