Lisa Shirichena Herald Reporter
A group of Christian leaders plans to hold 15 workshops in various communities to promote peace and encourage people to relate well in inter-cultural settings following an upsurge of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Ecumenical Church Leaders Forum (ECLF) director, Bishop Ambrose Moyo, condemned the recent wave of attacks on foreigners in South Africa, saying there was need to conscientise local communities about the dangers of xenophobia.

“We as the ECLF, strongly condemn the brutal and inhuman attacks on foreigners in South Africa,” he said.

“As the church, we are strongly opposed to those behind these barbaric attacks. We are going to hold 15 workshops on peace to sensitise local communities about the dangers of xenophobia and to encourage people to treat foreigners with dignity.”

Attacks on foreigners, Bishop Moyo said, blotted out the image of God and divided the human family.

“A stranger in the community should be met with friendliness and caring,” he said.

“All Christians should pray for an end to these attacks. It is through these workshops that we want to conscientise people about the dangers of xenophobia.”

Violence against immigrants in South Africa has killed more than seven people since last week.

The current xenophobic attacks have been ranked among the worst in years.

Some of the people were decapitated, while others had bodies dismembered and put in sacks.

Hundreds of migrants, mostly from regional African countries, have been forced out of their homes and attacked in blatant incidents of xenophobia.

More than 60 people were killed in a flare-up of similar violence in 2008 in which foreigners were targeted.

The latest violence followed reported comments by Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini that foreigners should pack their bags and leave.

Zwelithini has since appealed for an end to the unrest and argues he was misquoted.

The ECLF aims to promote human values and dignity and to act as a platform to build the capacity of pastoral leaders, educators and communities to participate in peace-building, justice, healing and reconciliation.

You Might Also Like

Comments

Take our Survey

We value your opinion! Take a moment to complete our survey