Something is wrong when Afrikans begin to fear other Afrikans. Recent headlines and viral videos have shown scenes of anger and exclusion directed at migrants from neighboring countries. Among the most affected are Nigerians, Ghanaians, and Zimbabweans; many of whom operate small businesses such as kiosks, salons, and informal shops that sustain their families and contribute to local economies.

Admittedly, the frustrations behind these reactions can be understood when viewed in context. Many citizens are grappling with a struggling economy, rising unemployment, and inadequate service delivery, particularly within public institutions. Long queues at hospitals and schools, limited job opportunities, and economic uncertainty create real anxiety. In such circumstances, it is easy to attribute social problems; such as crime, prostitution, drug trafficking, and petty theft -to foreigners. These concerns are genuine and deserve attention.

However, as an African, I find myself asking deeper questions.

When people claim that foreigners are stealing opportunities, why are African migrants often singled out, while non-African foreigners; such as Asians, Europeans, or Americans are more readily accepted as “expatriates”? This distinction reflects a long-standing mindset shaped by colonial history, where some outsiders are perceived as contributors to economic growth, while others are viewed as burdens.

Yet economic reality is more complex than that narrative suggests.

How can a person selling snacks in a small roadside shop destabilize an entire economy, while large-scale investors who own vast tracts of land or businesses; and repatriate significant profits back home instead of reinvesting locally; are rarely questioned? It is worth reflecting on who truly holds the greatest economic influence and responsibility.

The divisions we see today are not entirely new. Colonial borders separated communities that once interacted freely, creating the impression that Africans in neighboring countries are strangers rather than partners. Historically, Africans stood together in the struggle against colonial rule, united by shared challenges and a common vision of freedom. That spirit of solidarity should not be forgotten.

If all Africans decided to close their borders to immigrants, we would be in one big mess. If Ugandans could not cross over to Kenya, if Ethiopians could not come to Uganda, and if Nigerians could not travel to Ghana, there would be no need for inter-country relationships. We would be forced to suffer within our own countries, even during times of war or hardship.

My suggestion is this: let us do things right, and in the right way. Governments should properly document all immigrants and strictly follow up on both documented and undocumented individuals. At the same time, crime rates must be fought directly through strong and effective law enforcement agencies that enforce the law fairly and protect all people.

A failing economy cannot be blamed on a small percentage of immigrants when a greater part of the economy is controlled by corrupt governing systems and exploitative interests. Look to your government leaders. Do not be puppets; challenge them and demand accountability.

We must not assume that the immigrant, whether legal or undocumented, selling dried snacks on the roadside is destabilizing the economy. He is simply doing the work that others are unwilling to do.