South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced sweeping new measures aimed at tackling illegal migration, as growing anti-foreigner protests and concerns over unemployment continue to fuel tensions across the country.
In a national address, Ramaphosa unveiled a comprehensive strategy that includes tougher penalties for employers who hire undocumented migrants, the establishment of special immigration courts to accelerate deportation processes, and the creation of a biometric database for every person living in South Africa.
The president said the government was committed to addressing the challenges associated with illegal migration while ensuring that law enforcement remains the responsibility of state authorities.
“Only authorised government officials may act against violations of the law, including immigration laws,” Ramaphosa said. “No individual has the right to confront people in the streets and demand proof of nationality.”
Rising Tensions and Migrant Evacuations
The announcement comes amid increasing anti-immigration demonstrations across South Africa. Several groups campaigning against undocumented migration have demanded that foreign nationals without legal status leave the country by June 30.
The rising hostility has prompted a number of African countries to organize evacuations for their citizens. In the Western Cape’s Overberg region, hundreds of migrants recently fled their homes following reports of intimidation and violence. Many sought refuge in community shelters, while others returned to their home countries, including Malawi and Mozambique.
In Durban, foreign nationals have continued camping outside government offices, citing fears for their safety.
Five-Point Strategy Against Illegal Migration
Ramaphosa outlined a five-point plan designed to strengthen immigration controls and address public concerns:
- Intensifying enforcement against immigration law violations.
- Strengthening border security.
- Combating corruption within the immigration system.
- Closing legal loopholes that facilitate illegal migration.
- Collaborating with other African nations to address migration challenges.
The president emphasized that concerns over migration should not be exploited to incite violence or advance political agendas.
“We will act against those who seek to destabilize the country by using concerns about illegal immigration for political, personal, or criminal gain,” he said.
Employers Face Tougher Penalties
A key component of the government’s strategy targets businesses that employ undocumented workers.
Ramaphosa said some employers take advantage of migrants by paying wages below the legal minimum and accepting small fines when caught. To address this, the government plans to recruit 10,000 labor inspectors to monitor compliance.
Businesses found guilty of employing undocumented migrants could face significantly harsher penalties, including imprisonment.
Digital Identity System and Anti-Corruption Measures
The president also acknowledged corruption within the immigration system, noting that fraudulent documentation has contributed to illegal migration.
As part of reforms, South Africa plans to phase out traditional green identity books and move toward a digital identification system supported by biometric data. Authorities believe the transition will help combat identity theft and document fraud.
Additionally, refugee reception centers will be relocated closer to border posts to improve processing and management of asylum seekers.
Focus on Informal Businesses
Ramaphosa addressed public concerns regarding foreign-owned informal businesses, commonly known as spaza shops, which have frequently been targeted during outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
The government plans to strengthen registration requirements for informal traders and introduce employment quotas for foreign nationals across various sectors of the economy.
Balancing Security and Inclusion
Despite the tougher immigration measures, Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s commitment to diversity and tolerance.
“There is no place for xenophobia, racism, Afrophobia, or any other form of intolerance in South Africa,” he said.
The president highlighted the country’s history as a nation shaped by migration and stressed the importance of maintaining social cohesion.
South Africa currently hosts more than three million documented foreign nationals, representing about 5% of the population, though authorities believe the actual number is significantly higher due to undocumented migration.
According to Ramaphosa, the Border Management Authority intercepted more than 450,000 attempted illegal border crossings over the past year, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing the country.
Looking Ahead
Ramaphosa said South Africa would engage with other African governments to explain the new immigration measures and promote regional cooperation. He argued that peace, stability, and economic growth across the continent remain essential to managing migration pressures.
Concluding his address, the president expressed confidence that the reforms would help create a safer and more prosperous South Africa.
“South Africa has overcome division, conflict, and injustice before,” Ramaphosa said. “We will overcome this challenge too.”
