South African perspectives on Philoxenia and its effects on social cohesion with African immigrants

Jonathan Oshupeng Maseng and Gundo Gabara
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Jonathan Oshupeng Maseng: University of Mpumalanga
Gundo Gabara: University of Mpumalanga

International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), 2025, vol. 14, issue 6, 240-254

Abstract: This paper aims to explore perspective of South Africans on the effects of philoxenia on social cohesion between South Africans and African immigrants. The researchers employed exploratory research design, qualitative research methods and document analysis as well as in-depth interviews to solicit data. The work employed Philoxenia as a conceptual framework as well as positive and negative contact theories as tools of analysis. The findings indicate that South African perspectives on philoxenia is that, there exists “an ethic of hospitality toward foreign nationals†. This underscores the multifaceted nature of social cohesion within multicultural urban settings. While a number of South Africans in metropolitan areas, exhibit inclusive attitudes that facilitate positive intercultural relations, such experiences are not homogenous. They are not rooted in sustained emotional connection and fall short of fostering genuine. Compounding this challenge, the paper reveals that, manifestations of xenophobia, Afrophobia, and colour-blind xenophobia persist, often undermine the socio-cultural integration of African immigrants. The researchers recommend that, there is a need for a multi-level, collaborative approach to promoting a more deeply rooted form of philoxenia to address both the symbolic and material dimensions of social cohesion. Therefore, there are positive implications for African unity inspired by Philoxenia, while xenophobia, Afrophobia, and colour-blind xenophobia have negative spinoffs. Key Words:African immigrants, philoxenia, South Africans, social cohesion

Date: 2025
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