African ambassadors in South Africa are planning to boycott the country's main Africa Day event scheduled for May 25 in North West province, in protest against a recent surge in anti-immigrant attacks, according to diplomatic sources.
The boycott is seen as a significant diplomatic snub to the South African government, which has been criticized for its response to xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly from other African countries.
Africa Day, celebrated annually on May 25, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963. The event in South Africa was intended to promote unity and solidarity among African nations.
South African officials have not yet commented on the planned boycott. The government has previously condemned xenophobic attacks and pledged to address the issue, but critics say enforcement has been weak.
