Mozambique braced for exodus from South Africa

Mozambique declared a state of emergency yesterday to help citizens fleeing attacks against foreigners in South Africa, warning the “exodus will worsen” as thousands are still housed in makeshift camps awaiting transport back home.

Meanwhile, South African police reported more violence yesterday, with sporadic incidents reported across the country, including Cape Town and Durban, leaving scores homeless.

Cape Town police spokesman Billy Jones said about 400 people had sought shelter on a racetrack after 12 people were injured in overnight attacks on an informal settlement nearby.

“The area is quiet now but we are maintaining a visible presence,” he said, adding that many of the displaced had been moved to various community centres and town halls.

At least 42 people have been killed and more than 25,000 foreigners displaced since attacks began earlier this month by South Africans who blame foreigners for crime and unemployment.

Thousands have taken shelter in the winter cold at police stations, churches and other camps. Officials plan to build tent cities for them.

Predicting an escalating “exodus”, Mozambique Foreign Minister Oldemiro Baloi said the state of emergency had been declared as thousands of Mozambicans flooded across the border.

He said the violence in South Africa had been discussed by President Armando Guebuza and his cabinet, and the state’s relief agency would provide support.