By Our Reporter | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – The Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA) has strongly condemned the recent wave of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa, describing the violence as “horrific and senseless” while calling on the South African government to take immediate and decisive measures to protect the lives of African migrants and restore peace.
In a statement issued from Lomé, Togo, on July 15, 2026, FECCIWA declared its full support for the Africa Methodist Council (AMC) and the South African Council of Churches (SACC), both of which have condemned the attacks targeting African nationals living in South Africa.
The regional ecumenical body said it was deeply saddened by the killings and harassment of both documented and undocumented African migrants, noting that many of those affected have legally lived in South Africa for years and established families and livelihoods.
“The Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA) expresses deep sorrow and grave concern over the horrific and senseless killings of fellow Africans over the past days and weeks in South Africa,” the organization said.
Standing in solidarity with the AMC and the SACC, FECCIWA stated that the repeated attacks have inflicted “unimaginable pain, trauma, and suffering” on victims, their families, friends, and communities, warning that the increasing frequency and brutality of the violence can no longer be tolerated.
The organization echoed calls from the AMC, SACC, and other civil society and faith-based organizations for South African authorities and security agencies to act swiftly to safeguard lives and ensure the protection of all people affected by the xenophobic and Afrophobic violence across the country.
FECCIWA urged the South African government, security forces, and political leaders at all levels to move beyond public condemnations and work collectively to end the recurring violence.
“Concrete, coordinated, and sustained efforts are needed to restore trust, uphold the rule of law, and secure justice and peace for all,” the fellowship emphasized.
The Christian body further called on the South African government to demonstrate the political will and moral responsibility needed to bring lasting peace, stressing that those responsible for the attacks must face justice.
“Justice must prevail. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be apprehended and held accountable to preserve the sanctity of life and deter future acts of violence,” FECCIWA stated.
The fellowship also expressed sympathy to families who have lost loved ones and communities displaced by the violence.
“FECCIWA extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and communities. May those displaced by these senseless acts find safety, peace, and solace among our brothers and sisters in the community. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may healing and hope find their way into the hearts of those affected,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and justice across the continent, FECCIWA said it would continue to stand in prayer and solidarity with South Africa while urging an end to the violence.
“As a regional ecumenical body committed to peace and justice, we continue to uphold South Africa in prayer and solidarity. May justice reign throughout Africa. Stop the violence. Stop the harassment. Stop the killings. Let peace prevail,” the fellowship concluded.
The statement was signed by Rt. Rev. Godson Lawson-Kpavùvu, President of the Methodist Church of Togo, Chairman of the FECCIWA Advisory Committee, and Vice President for West Africa of the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC).
