CLIMATE MIGRATION AND XENOPHOBIA

The recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa have caused immense suffering, fear and displacement among many migrants and refugees. The leader of the anti- illegal migrant movements – March and March – Jacinta Ngobese Zuma – said this “Ubuntu is suspended until further notice”. Foreign nationals without proper documentation have been told to leave by the 30th of June this Tuesday.

In response, the South African Council of Churches (SACC) has spoken out strongly against violence and hatred directed at foreign nationals. Archbishop Sithembele Sipuka, President of the SACC, stated that “the Church cannot remain silent when human dignity is violated,” reminding Christians that every person bears the image of God. The SACC acknowledged the real challenges of unemployment, poverty and poor service delivery, but stressed that migrants must not become scapegoats for deeper social and economic problems. The Council called on South Africans to reject xenophobia, embrace Ubuntu, and pursue justice, compassion and solidarity with all who seek safety, dignity and a better life.

As I write, there are about 12000 Malawians currently in Sherwood, Durban, are there because many fled xenophobic threats and violence in nearby informal settlements, where many Malawian families fled fearing for their safety. Hundreds, and later thousands, sought refuge at the grounds around Sherwood Hall, where humanitarian groups, churches, and community organisations have been providing emergency assistance.

The situation has since grown into a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of Malawian nationals camped in and around Sherwood awaiting transport home. South African and Malawian authorities have been coordinating voluntary repatriation efforts, although the process has been slowed by the large numbers involved and logistical challenges.

We need to remember that one of the causes for Malawians to flee to South Africa is climate change. In 2023 Cyclone Freddy hit Malawi causing devasting flooding and washing away farms and topsoil . The was followed by one of the worse droughts in the last 100 years.

Small holder farmers, dependant on rain- agriculture, had to leave for the towns and many moved to South Africa looking for work. How do today’s Scriptures speak into this context? Increasing climate change impacts are leading to more and more migration , causing economic pressure and push back against
migration.

Matthew 10:40–42 – Hospitality, Solidarity, and Care for the Vulnerable
In Matthew 10:40–42, Jesus teaches that welcoming his disciples is equivalent to welcoming him and the One who sent him. Jesus says, “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.” The passage reveals that hospitality is not merely a social action but a spiritual encounter: the way people receive the vulnerable messenger reflects the relationship with God. In the context of xenophobia, this challenges attitudes that reject, fear, or dehumanise foreigners.

Jesus identifies himself with “the little ones” (v.42), those who may have little power, status, or security. The phrase can include his disciples, but it also reflects God’s wider concern for those who are marginalised. Migrants, refugees, and displaced people often find themselves among society’s most vulnerable — dependent on the compassion of others for safety, shelter, and dignity. Jesus’ words suggest that how a community treats outsiders reveals its understanding of God’s kingdom.

The “cup of cold water” is a simple but powerful symbol. In the ancient world, offering water to a traveller was an act of mercy and hospitality. It did not require wealth or influence; it required recognising another person’s humanity. The churches and NGOs who provide hot food, nappies for new born babies and a loving hand to those traumatised by fear of xenophobic attacks are showing that God is present.

In a time of xenophobic violence, where foreigners may be blamed for unemployment, crime, or social challenges, Jesus calls his followers to resist fear and choose compassion.

The stranger is not a threat but someone through whom Christ may be encountered. This passage also speaks against the idea that human worth is determined by nationality, ethnicity, or economic contribution. The kingdom of God crosses borders.

Jesus does not say,
“Welcome those who are like you,” but calls his followers to welcome those who come in need.

In the South African context, Matthew 10:40–42 challenges the Church to reject xenophobia and embrace Ubuntu — the recognition that “I am because we are.” It calls Christians to stand with migrants and refugees, addressing the deeper injustices of poverty, inequality, and exclusion while affirming that every person is made in the image of God.

From a creation care perspective, the image of a cup of cold water carries profound
significance. Water is one of God’s essential gifts, yet climate change, pollution, and drought increasingly threaten access to clean water, especially for vulnerable communities. Climate justice likewise calls Christians to stand in solidarity with those most affected by environmental harm, even though they often contribute least to its causes. Providing water, protecting watersheds, reducing pollution, and advocating for environmental justice become expressions of Christian hospitality. Communities impacted by Climate change need support to become climate resilient, otherwise the numbers of migrants will continue to rocket.

The passage invites a prophetic question: When we encounter the stranger, someone who speaks a different language or comes from a different country – do we see a problem to remove, or do we see Christ himself standing at our door?