African delegates in China denounce xenophobic attacks

African delegates attending seminars in China have voiced strong condemnation of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign African nationals within South Africa. Speaking on the sidelines of training programs organized by China's Ministry of Commerce, they urged for enhanced unity across the continent.

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In Africa, we are all one. These boundaries are artificial creations. We should treat each other as brothers and sisters.

The delegates described the reported violence as deeply disturbing and contrary to the core ideals of Pan-Africanism, solidarity, and peaceful coexistence. Yusupha Bojang of The Gambia's National Council for Civic Education stressed the importance of recognizing a shared African identity, stating, "In Africa, we are all one. These boundaries are artificial creations. We should treat each other as brothers and sisters."

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We need to unite. When we see wrongs happening, we should all come out to condemn them because it can happen to anybody.

They argued that frustrations over domestic challenges should not be misdirected at fellow Africans lawfully residing in other countries. Jallow Gibbi, a journalist from The Gambia, expressed embarrassment over Africans attacking fellow Africans, calling it "not humanitarian." He urged African leaders and international organizations to actively promote peace and unity, echoing the sentiment, "One Africa, one people. We should unite and stay together."

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When I watched the news, I was embarrassed to see Africans fighting Africans. It is not humanitarian and it should not happen.

Recalling the significant support provided by many African nations during South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle, Kawu Muhammed Lawan of Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy found the current hostility particularly troubling. He called for practical steps from African leaders to safeguard citizens continent-wide and bolster regional integration.

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We are all Africans from the north to the south, east and west. We cannot attack ourselves. We are one Africa, one people.