The events in South Africa are a direct fail by President Thabo Mbeki to resolve the bigger problem that threatens the region-the crisis in Zimbabwe. His ‘silent diplomacy’ towards the events in Zimbabwe are obviously to blame for the chaos being witnessed in the streets of Johannesburg.

Mbeki has openly supported the dubious and anti-constitutional military power played by Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his goons.

In a whirlwind of most likely politically inspired gang violence, much resembling the aparthied era and reminiscent of the militias in Zimbabwe, immigrants from other African countries now find themselves targeted, hunted down, beaten up and even killed in growing numbers.

The perpetrators show all signs of being organized and taking hints from above‚ to achieve a political agenda through violent means. Such behavior was previously only known from repressive dictatorial regimes in Africa and the resurgence of such tactics in South Africa is ringing the alarm bells on the continent and around the globe.

Several Africans residing in South Africa and visiting there are now also reported to have been caught up in these events, losing property.

What shocks many people is the fact that the very Africans who they are targeting t offered them homes, schools, work, and even love when they struggled for liberation and self freedom.

Its the same Africans who allowed the ANC to form bases in Tanzania, Uganda and in other countries.

The action is a betrayal and a shame of the African people. The South African government should stand up and protect this foreigners from this senseless hollocust being perpetrated by some insensitive South Africans.

Innocent Africans in South Africa have ended up in hospitals. What this has triggered in other countries is that a pattern of revange is likely to be witnessed. In Uganda, Media reports in Uganda expressed concern for their fellow Ugandans in South Africa, in particular, those in Johannesburg, and people have been quoted to be planing to revange. Similar sentiments are evident in Nigeria and in Cameroon. However, diplomatic sources have down played the anger in almost capitals across Africa.

Its a tragic situation for Africa and the rest of the civilized world which had viewed South Africa as an emerging African democratic success story.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (International Federation of Association Football) or FIFA, too, as will other global sports bodies, intent of handing major championships to South Africa, is showing signs of concern bordering a minor panic, ahead of the 2010 Football World Cup.

It would be logical for FIFA to reconsider its decision to host the 2010 World Cup in South Africa given it current reputation. Infact, African countries should not field teams to the 2010 World Cup if it being held in South Africa. How will garantee them of their own safety in a countries where black people have been haunted down like rats and killed in cold blood.

The current crime rate in South Africa has targeted tourists casting doubts over the South African governments ability to protect.

In this regard the current events are a let down to the dreams and aspirations of Nelson Mandel and the very principles that South Africans and Africa as continent fought for during the struggle for independence.