Afrophobia and South Africa's image on the continent: Implications for inter-state relations and diplomacy

South Africa's global image has been dented on the continent, mainly because of the frequent attacks on African nationals, which has not only portrayed South Africa as an intolerant country which does not like anything associated with the black skin but as an Afrophobic country. Therefore, the objective of this study is to present an argument that South Africa has an Afrophobic rather than a xenophobic problem. To achieve this, the study employed a documentary content analysis research method; where a systematic review of literature relating to Afrophobia in South Africa was collected and examined. The findings showed that the South African government has failed to put an end to the constant attacks on black African nationals in the republic, which has strained its relationship with African states. Moreover, the political rhetoric by politicians and the porous nature of South Africa's borders are other contributing factors to the Afrophobic problem in the country. The study concluded that public education is key to reducing Afrophobia, through public lectures and seminars to discuss the negative implications of Afrophobia for South Africa's developmental objectives. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies should enforce the full might of law on those found to be perpetuating Afrophobic sentiments.