By George Omagbemi
JOHANNESBURG — September 29, 2026: South Africa is bracing for renewed nationwide demonstrations on Wednesday, September 30, as the March and March movement prepares fresh protests over undocumented foreign nationals, crime and other community concerns.
The September 30 action follows the movement’s June 30 protests, when thousands marched in several cities demanding the departure of undocumented foreign nationals. The earlier demonstrations were largely peaceful but were accompanied by isolated incidents of unrest and heightened anxiety among migrant communities.
March and March has continued to insist that its campaign is directed at undocumented migration rather than foreign nationals generally. The movement has also linked its demands to border control, crime and conditions in South African communities. However, the renewed mobilisation has raised concerns among foreign nationals, including those with valid documentation, amid reports that tensions have spilled beyond immigration enforcement.
The September 30 deadline issued by the movement has no legal authority to remove or deport anyone from South Africa. Government authorities have repeatedly stated that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the state and warned private groups against intimidation, vigilantism or taking the law into their own hands.
The foreign-national issue has particular significance for Nigerians and other African communities living and working in South Africa. The Nigerian Union in South Africa has advised Nigerians to remain vigilant, avoid protest hotspots, keep passports and immigration documents secure, and report threats or attacks to the authorities.
The union has also urged Nigerians to distinguish between concerns over undocumented immigration and the rights and safety of foreigners who are lawfully resident in South Africa.
Meanwhile, police and security agencies are expected to maintain public order around major protest locations. Authorities have urged participants to exercise restraint and warned that violence, intimidation, looting or attacks on people or property will not be tolerated.
As Wednesday’s demonstrations approach, foreign-national communities remain particularly concerned about possible confrontations, while authorities face pressure to balance the right to peaceful protest with the protection of residents, migrants and businesses.
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