24 June 2026 – South Africa faces a tense period as anti-foreigner sentiment increases in several regions. In recent weeks, groups opposing illegal immigration have staged marches and protests, while foreign nationals from several African countries have reported intimidation, assaults and fear for their safety. Human rights organisations warn that in some areas the situation has escalated beyond normal public protest, taking the form of vigilantism and xenophobic intimidation.
Deadline
At the centre of the current tension is the date 30 June 2026. Anti-migrant groups and social media campaigns have circulated messages demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave South Africa by this date. Some warnings go further, threatening protests, shutdowns and action against foreign nationals who remain.
Focus points
1. Concerns
The concern extends beyond lawful protests to the danger that demonstrations could be used as cover for violence, looting, intimidation, assaults on foreign-owned businesses, or the blocking of roads and public spaces. Pray for peace and calm, for law and order to prevail in every city, town and suburb across South Africa, and that none of these destructive forces will take hold.
2. Fear and unrest
There have also been rumours of countrywide unrest like the July 2021 riots. Police have acknowledged the social media chatter and planned demonstrations, but that unverified panic messages should not be spread as fact. Pray for the Lord’s intervention against fear, intimidation and any violence. Pray for the Church to play its part in standing for righteousness and justice.
3. Government
The government has acknowledged the seriousness of illegal immigration and is taking steps to strengthen immigration enforcement through inspections, deportations, border-control measures and dedicated immigration-related court processes. Pray that locals will respect these procedures, and no longer harm, loot or intimidate foreign nationals.
4. Preparations
Ahead of 30 June, SAPS says it has boosted readiness across all provinces, with Public Order Police on standby and national and provincial plans in place. Pray for these preparations, specifically for the protection of communities, critical infrastructure and key public spaces.
5. Law and order
In the days ahead, firm law enforcement and responsible communication are vital to ensure legitimate immigration concerns do not ignite violence or xenophobic unrest. Pray for the Church to cry out to the Lord on behalf of the nation – repenting for wrongs done both to and by foreigners. Ask that anti‑immigrant protests will dwindle, and for the safety of all foreigners and those refusing to join demonstrations or violence.
Pray Scripture
>> Love for the foreigner
“The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself.” Leviticus 19:34
“And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:39.
Ask God to remove hatred, fear and prejudice. Pray for communities to treat foreigners with dignity, justice and compassion. Pray for the Church to obey the Lord’s commandment to love their neighbour as themselves.
>> Peace in the land
“LORD, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” Isaiah 26:12
Pray for peace in every city, township, road, community and places where unrest may be planned or feared. Ask for no harm to come to people or property.
>> Wisdom for leaders
“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” Proverbs 21:1
Pray for godly wisdom for government, police, community leaders and political voices.
>> Protection from violence and lawlessness
“Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloodthirsty men.” Psalm 59:2
Pray that violent schemes, intimidation, destruction, looting and bloodshed will be uncovered and stopped. Also, that those who are legally in the country will not be treated the same as illegal immigrants.
>> Justice and righteousness
“But let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” Amos 5:24
Pray for lawful immigration processes, righteous governance, fair treatment for all, and justice without hatred or vigilantism.
Practically
>> Fast and pray
Consider fasting and praying for the Lord’s presence to cover South Africa, and for protection of lives, property and infrastructure.
>> Prayer chain
Start a special prayer chain in your church or prayer group until 30 June, covering these matters in prayer as they unfold in the media.
>> Salvation
Lift up the names of the Lord over South Africa, its citizens and foreign nationals, that all may encounter Jesus personally and come to know Him.
‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ – Matthew 22:39
