Xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in Musina Town, South Africa

Abstract

This study sought to close this gap by exploring the xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in Musina town in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Nine illegal migrant youths were purposively and conveniently selected to participate in this study. Data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically through the assistance of the Nvivo software. The objective of this study was achieved through the guidance of narrative theory. The findings of the study reveal that illegal migrant youth in Musina Town experience violent attacks and derogatory name-calling from the local citizens. The findings further reveal that illegal migrant youths are experiencing blame-shifting by the local citizens. Harassment in healthcare facilities and employment places is also revealed as xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in South Africa. It is recommended that the South African government should develop educative and awareness campaigns to respond to xenophobia in the country. It is also recommended that the security at the border gates need to be tightened to mitigate the influx of illegal migrants into the country.