Anita Odunyao Solarin expresses deep frustrations regarding her lived experiences as a Nigerian in South Africa, stating, 'I try not to show where I am from or look Nigerian. I hide my identity socially. Because I've had to do it for so long, it has become normal.' This highlights the ongoing challenges she and others face in assimilating under the pressure of xenophobic sentiments.
Reflecting on her childhood, Solarin recalls, 'My school life was tough because I was bullied for my background. I was called names, especially the derogatory term, makwerekwere. South Africans have this idea that if you're not one of them, you don't deserve to be here.' This underscores the long-standing discrimination she experienced from a young age.
After expressing the fear of backlash, Solarin remarks, 'Not many Nigerian children here will say I am Nigerian because they are scared of the backlash and the hate. It's just not safe for them.' This encapsulates the pervasive atmosphere of fear among young Nigerians living in South Africa.
Solarin's narrative is further compounded by the recent violence against foreigners, as she notes, 'South Africa has a long history of simmering anti-foreigner sentiment, and social tensions directed at other Black Africans in the country have turned violent over the years.' This points to the broader implications of xenophobic attitudes in the society.
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