Impact of Migration on Xenophobic Attacks in 2016 : the case of Bankhara-Bodulong, Northern Cape of South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact that migration has had on xenophobia in South Africa. This was explored using the case of Bankhara-Bodulong in the Northern Cape Province which witnessed xenophobic violence in 2016. For the theoretical framework which informed the analysis and discussion, this study draws on the neo-liberalism theory, social network theory, frustration aggression theory and social cohesion theory. This study adopted a qualitative research design and a total of eighteen interviews were carried out with respondents in the Kuruman area in the Northern Cape Province. The study revealed that increase in xenophobic activity which in turn has created negative and strained diplomatic relations between South Africa and other African countries. The results also revealed that the main cause for xenophobic violence in the case study area was due to the death of a South African youth who was reportedly murdered because he stole meat from a foreigner's shop.