EFF statement on Afrophobic attacks against Miss SA contestant Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina

31 July 2024

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes, with deep concern, and unequivocally rejects the escalating Afrophobic attacks directed at Miss South Africa contestant Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina on social media. These hateful comments stem solely from her Nigerian heritage, despite her meeting all the requirements of the competition and being South African born.

Firstly, Adetshina's eligibility to compete for the Miss South Africa title should never have been questioned as the competition performed due diligence to verify the status of all contestants. Secondly, the intense scrutiny and vitriol aimed at Adetshina reveal a continued colonised mindset among many South Africans.

This situation reflects remnants of apartheid and colonisation, where divisive ideologies continue to plague our society. It is particularly troubling that previous contestants of foreign descent did not face similar scrutiny when they were white or Asian, such as Vanessa Carreira whose parents are Portuguese and Angolan, highlighting a blatant case of Afrophobia.

We call on South Africans to introspect and ask themselves: why such harshness towards a 23-year-old Black South African woman? What does that say about your mind? Is this a reflection of my deep-seated prejudices?

Furthermore, this anti-African sentiment is not limited to Miss South Africa contestants.

Member of Parliament, Naledi Chirwa, born in South Africa, faces similar hatred despite her citizenship, while Natasha Mazzone, who is a first-generation South African of Italian descent (both parents), does not warrant such outrage. This disparity highlights the pervasive Afrophobia within our society.

People of European, Indian, and Asian descent, who even hold public office in South Africa, do not receive the same level of abuse and scrutiny, yet Africans born in South Africa are pariahs in their land of birth.

We must also be vigilant about the potential descent into tribalism that such Afrophobia can precipitate. The EFF has always advocated for the decolonisation of our outlook as Africans towards other Africans. We must recognise and celebrate our shared humanity and reject the divisive forces that seek to sow discord among us.

The EFF stands in solidarity with Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina and all those who face discrimination based on their African heritage. We urge all South Africans to embrace the spirit of unity and reject the remnants of our colonial and apartheid past.

Let us build a future where all South Africans, regardless of their background, are respected and valued for who they are. Equally, we send our well wishes to all Miss South African finalists. All candidates must be awarded equal respect and fair treatment, free from victimisation and bullying.

Issued by Leigh-Ann Mathys, National Spokesperson, EFF, 31 July 2024