This paper interrogates the state of unity, peace, and cohesion within South African borders nearly three decades into democracy. While South Africa’s Constitution and post-apartheid policies promote inclusion, solidarity, and Pan-African ideals, the persistence of xenophobia exposes contradictions between normative aspirations and lived realities. Drawing on qualitative research, including literature reviews, interviews, and documentary analysis, the paper employs Pan-Africanism and Ubuntu as theoretical lenses to examine how policy evolution, socio-economic pressures, and discriminatory practices against African foreign nationals have undermined social cohesion. By tracing South Africa’s legislative and institutional responses from the Reconstruction and Development Programme and Refugees Act to recent restrictions on asylum seekers, the study reveals how structural inequality, political rhetoric, and moral erosion have entrenched hostility towards migrants. It concludes that without revitalising Pan-African and Ubuntu values through ethical leadership, inclusive governance, and reformed asylum systems, South Africa’s project of unity and peace will remain incomplete and morally compromised.