Washington DC, USA - 15 April 2015: The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has described the attacks of foreign nationals in the province of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa as “unacceptable,” calling an immediate halt while expressing once again her deep concerns regarding the attacks on foreign nationals.

“Whatever the challenges we may be facing, no circumstances justify attacks on people, whether foreigners or locals. It is unacceptable.” She lamented.

While calling for an immediate halt to the attacks, the AU Commission welcomes the interventions from the South African government, including the deployment of the Inter-Ministerial committee to KwaZulu Natal to engage with those affected and with local communities, as well as the deployment of more police to provide protection and keep law and order.

The AU Commission Chairperson decried the incidents as particularly unfortunate, as celebrations of Africa month approaches. “On 25 May we remember the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, which played such a critical role in mobilizing international solidarity for the end of Apartheid.” She added.

The challenges faced by South Africa, poverty and unemployment, are challenges faced by all countries on the continent and we must work together to address these, and build a better future for all Africans.

The AU Commission Chairperson appealed for dialogue in and amongst communities, to address the challenges and find peaceful solutions.

Jacob Enoh Eben, Spokesperson of the Chairperson, Cell: +1 202 751 8515, Email: EnohebenJ@africa-union.org;