Today, at 8.30am, April 21 a meeting was called with foreign nationals at the town hall to seek a way forward and allow them to express themselves concerning xenophobic violence. Despite all the hate, violence and attacks, which have stirred in the country over the past month, none of the foreign nationals present uttered a word about retaliating to the uproar.

Foreign nationals voiced the fears and experiences they encountered when their shops are broken into and valuables are stolen and just how upset they are about the violence, though they continued to preach unity and peace through it all. Most of the foreign nationals directed complaints at the police, for either acting too late or simply not acting on reports made at all, if not issuing the excuse of a SAPS vehicle not being available.

One other foreign national, introduced himself as Gift from Estcourt. Being a part of the community for years, he now tells people he is from Estcourt and a part of the community, this left attendants giving a warm hearted chuckle. “We don’t appreciate being called funny names, it’s barbaric to burn, stab and shoot others,” he expressed with disgust. “We share the same culture, this is no way to treat people, and we are human too,” he added.

Mayor Bongani Dlamini said: “The key to finding a solution is to educate other people.” “We need each other to survive, irrespective of nationality, race or gender. It is one thing to call such meetings and give speeches, but we need to physically get involved to seek a solution,” he declared.

The Mayor went on to say if any of the foreign nationals would like to return to their country they may seek assistance to do so, and added that they should confront the problem and not run away from it. An emergency committee was established, the committee of 10 is made up of both males and females from various African countries such as Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Malawi, Zambia, Ghana, DRC Congo, Nigeria and Somalia.

The new committee members look forward to playing a role in order to seek a solution to settle xenophobic violence. ANC Chief Whip and PR Councillor Edith Lite informed those present that should any xenophobic attacks occur, foreign nationals are to seek refuge at either the town hall or the Forderville Hall. Soon another meeting will be called with members of the SAPS to answer questions the foreign nationals want answered.

A Foreigners Association will also be established in the near future where members will be elected to represent foreign nationals. “Thank you for calling this meeting and assisting us, including the support we are shown during this time. I want to thank everyone saying no to Xenophobia,” said another foreign national.

The mayor suggested more programmes that will unite one another; he made an example of a soccer tournament. His solution was that peace and unity soothe the hate and violence. Expressions of relief were worn, and sighs, cheers and applause of hope echoed through the hall.Tomorrow the newly established committee will meet at the town hall at 8.30am to draw up a memorandum, which will govern a way forward.