Renowned Pan-Africanist and Kenyan legal scholar Professor Patrick Lumumba has strongly condemned the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, calling on the South African government to issue a public apology to Africa and the international community and to compensate victims who lost their businesses and livelihoods.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, Nigeria, Lumumba described the attacks as a betrayal of the spirit of African unity. He urged Africans not to respond with hatred but with compassion and understanding, arguing that love rather than retaliation would help change the mindset of those promoting xenophobia and strengthen the bonds of continental brotherhood.

Beyond the attacks, Lumumba also addressed Africa’s economic future, challenging governments and investors across the continent to place greater confidence in Africa’s abundant resources, human capital and entrepreneurial potential. He called for increased intra-African investment to drive industrialisation, create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign capital. The Pan-Africanist further advocated the adoption of a common African currency, saying it would deepen economic integration, boost trade and accelerate sustainable development across the continent.