Story by Ursula Wesenaar |
Foreign shop owners in Durban say they are living in fear despite having valid documents, as tensions rise following the March-and-March movement led by Jacinta Zuma.
The movement, which calls for the removal of undocumented immigrants and stricter border controls, has created uncertainty for many lawful business owners. Some say they are being treated as if they are in the country illegally.
One shop owner, who asked to remain anonymous, said he no longer feels safe opening his store. “There is no protection on our businesses. People harass us even though we have the correct documentation,” he said. Like many others, he has shut his doors, fearing attacks.
The closures are now affecting local livelihoods beyond the foreign-owned shops. South African entrepreneurs who depend on these businesses for stock say they are also struggling.
Ntando Ntenga, a small clothing reseller, said her business has been at a standstill for two weeks. “My customers have ordered, but I can’t deliver because the shops where I buy stock are closed,” she explained. She has been forced to refund customers, cutting into her already thin profits.
While some residents support the movement, others are concerned about how it is unfolding. Minenhle Simamane said she backs the cause but worries about the violence. She urged protesters to follow the law.
Police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda warned that forcing shops to close or threatening owners is illegal. He said authorities would act against intimidation, stressing that only authorised bodies can shut down businesses.
