KABOKWENI, MPUMALANGA — Foreign spaza shop owners in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga, are expressing significant safety concerns ahead of planned protests targeting undocumented immigrants in the area. Following recent community demonstrations demanding that undocumented foreigners leave, local business operators fear a repeat of past unrest directed at foreign-owned enterprises.
Tensions escalated on Friday when residents from Kabokweni and surrounding areas took to the streets. During the demonstrations, all local spaza shops were closed, and foreign nationals operating these businesses remained out of sight. The upcoming Tuesday march has further heightened anxieties among the foreign business community.
One long-term foreign business owner, who has resided in South Africa for nearly 19 years, emphasized his compliance with local laws. He noted that his documentation is in order, including a recently granted two-year extension. He stated that he is not looking for a fight and would peacefully leave the country if the government officially determined his paperwork to be invalid.
A Bangladeshi national, who has operated a business in the country for over two decades, described himself as a law-abiding citizen deeply invested in the community. He highlighted his contributions, which include supporting locals with funeral costs, school fees, food, and clothing. He also mentioned funding business licenses for struggling youth and sponsoring the transport and education of a young man who has since become an engineer. He added that his business is properly registered, he pays taxes, and he employs six South African staff members.
Local residents hold mixed views on the presence of immigrant-owned spaza shops. One community member described the situation as complex, noting that many documented foreigners have lived in the area for years, provide employment, and actively assist the community. This resident suggested that any enforcement should specifically target individuals lacking proper papers rather than law-abiding business owners.
Conversely, another resident emphasized the necessity of proper documentation for anyone entering the country. This community member expressed frustration over rising crime rates, alleging that some undocumented individuals are involved in criminal activities, including home break-ins, and argued that the government is struggling to control the situation.
A third local resident pointed out the community’s practical reliance on these businesses. They explained that if spaza shops are forced to close, residents would be forced to travel to distant garages and shopping complexes, incurring additional transport costs. This economic dependence has left the community conflicted about the push to chase foreign shop owners away.
Law enforcement authorities continue to monitor the situation across various areas as the community awaits the Tuesday protests and the approaching June 30 deadline.
