Presidency rejects WHO claims of xenophobia deaths in South Africa

Pretoria – The Presidency has rejected claims by Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus that 10 African migrants were killed in xenophobia-related incidents in South Africa, saying some of the information shared by the World Health Organisation was inaccurate.

In a statement, presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya expressed concern over what he described as misleading reports, while extending condolences to families affected by recent violence.

“The Presidency deeply regrets the tragic loss of life in these recent incidents, as one life lost is simply one too many.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and communities affected,” the statement said.

The response follows comments by Ghebreyesus, who said five Ethiopians and five Mozambicans had been killed amid anti-migrant unrest and warned that thousands of migrants were fleeing for their lives. He called on South Africans to reject violence and protect vulnerable communities.

It is profoundly heartbreaking to witness another surge of xenophobic violence in #SouthAfrica this week. Hundreds have marched on Parliament, thousands of families have been displaced, and lives have been tragically cut short.

These include at least five Ethiopians killed… pic.twitter.com/0W5nssBZI8

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) June 14, 2026

However, the Presidency said the deaths of five Ethiopian nationals in Johannesburg were linked to organised crime rather than xenophobic attacks and are being investigated by law enforcement authorities.

It added that investigations into the deaths of Mozambican nationals in Mossel Bay are ongoing. While South African police reported two Mozambican deaths during violence in the Asla Park informal settlement, the Mozambican government has claimed that five of its citizens were killed.

The government said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation would engage with the World Health Organisation to ensure accurate information is shared.

It also reiterated that only authorised law enforcement officials have the authority to enforce immigration laws, amid growing anti-migrant protests across the country.