Ramaphosa Announces Comprehensive Strategy on Illegal Migration
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday outlined a comprehensive strategy to address illegal migration, balancing stricter enforcement with a firm rejection of xenophobia and vigilantism. The national address, delivered at 18:00, acknowledged widespread public concerns over the impact of illegal immigration on jobs, public services, security, and the rule of law.
Ramaphosa emphasized that concerns raised in communities, workplaces, schools, clinics, and social media are legitimate and deserve a meaningful government response. However, he cautioned against portraying illegal migration as the sole cause of the country's socio-economic challenges, pointing to persistently high unemployment, especially among young people, as well as poverty and sluggish economic growth as deeper structural issues.
The President stated that the long-term solution lies in accelerating economic growth through increased investment, industrial expansion, infrastructure development, and job creation. He noted that migration is a global phenomenon and reminded citizens that South Africa's history has been shaped by movement, diversity, and regional integration.
Commitment to Human Rights and Rule of Law
While reaffirming South Africa's commitment to human rights and international obligations toward those seeking protection, Ramaphosa stressed that everyone residing in the country must do so legally. He emphasized that law enforcement is the exclusive responsibility of the state, warning against vigilantism, street confrontations, and attacks targeting foreign nationals. He condemned xenophobia, racism, Afrophobia, and all forms of intolerance, cautioning that criminal groups and political actors could exploit public frustrations.
The President also expressed concern over misinformation on social media, noting that anti-foreigner sentiment has sometimes resulted in attacks against fellow South Africans.
Challenges of Illegal Migration
Ramaphosa highlighted that undocumented migration places pressure on public services and poses security concerns. He pointed to links between illegal migration networks and organized crime, including human trafficking, drug trafficking, and illegal mining. Exploitation of undocumented workers undermines job creation and labor standards, with some employers paying below legal wages. Concerns were also raised about the impact of foreign-owned informal businesses on local economic participation.
New Comprehensive Approach to Migration Management
To tackle these challenges, Ramaphosa announced the implementation of a newly adopted Comprehensive Approach to Migration Management, approved by Cabinet. Key measures include:
- Intensified efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals
- Establishment of dedicated immigration courts
- Increased workplace inspections and recruitment of 10,000 additional labor inspectors
- Tougher sanctions, including imprisonment, for employers exploiting undocumented workers
- Strengthened border security through investment in technology, infrastructure, and personnel
- Relocation of refugee reception centers closer to border areas, starting with Tshwane
- Streamlined asylum processing systems
Fighting Corruption and Strengthening Legislation
Ramaphosa pledged to intensify the fight against corruption within the Department of Home Affairs, including pursuing corrupt officials, introducing an Intelligent Population Register, implementing a Digital Identity system, phasing out green barcoded identity books, and tightening regulations on Traffic Registration Numbers. The government will also review and strengthen migration-related legislation to close loopholes and address inconsistencies.
Regional and Continental Engagement
Beyond domestic measures, South Africa will continue engaging with African countries and regional institutions to address broader drivers of migration and develop coordinated continental solutions.
Call for Unity
Concluding his address, Ramaphosa reiterated that the government's objective is to ensure lawful entry, effective law enforcement, fair economic competition, safer communities, and adherence to constitutional values. He called on South Africans to remain united, respect the rule of law, and work together toward building a safer and more prosperous nation without turning against one another.
