Somalia’s Migrants Choose South Africa Over Home, Despite Rising Hostility

CAPE TOWN — Somali migrants in South Africa say they would rather stay than return to Somalia, even as anti-immigrant sentiment grows. Many face difficult conditions, including threats and discrimination. Yet, they consider staying in South Africa a better option than going back to a country still recovering from decades of conflict and instability. For these migrants, the risks in South Africa, while serious, are outweighed by the lack of safety and opportunity in Somalia.