Abahambe or abahlale? Africa Day exposes us

On social media timelines and in street conversations, a phrase has become shorthand for South Africa’s current tension: “Abahambe? Abahlale?”

- NAMHLA MONAKALI

Should they leave, or should they stay? It is a question that has gained momentum alongside the “March and March” protests in recent weeks in Gauteng and now in Cape Town the past weekend, where demonstrators have called for stricter immigration enforcement, tighter border control and, in some cases, the removal of undocumented migrants. At the same time, it sits uncomfortably against Africa Day, marked on 25 May, which was meant to affirm unity, solidarity and shared belonging across the continent. The contradiction is difficult to ignore.

Translated from Zulu “Abahambe?” means “Should they leave?” and “Abahlale?” means “Should they stay?” On the surface, it is a binary question. In reality, it reflects a more layered struggle over belonging, legality, economic pressure and identity in a country still shaped by inequality and historical displacement.

This year’s Africa Day theme, focused on water security and sustainable sanitation under the African Union's Agenda 2063, speaks to a long-term vision of shared infrastructure and collective survival across borders.

However online and offline, the dominant mood is often shaped less by continental unity and more by scarcity, frustration and fear.

The “March and March” protests have been framed by organisers and supporters as a response to unemployment, strained public services and competition for limited opportunities. In communities where jobs are scarce and service delivery inconsistent, frustration has found a visible target. Migrants, particularly those without documentation, are often placed at the centre of that anger. Yet even within that anger, distinctions are frequently lost.