Ramaphosa Addresses Growing Concerns over Illegal Immigration
CAPE TOWN, South Africa — In a national television address on Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed to tackle mounting concerns regarding illegal immigration, following a wave of anti-immigrant protests and growing anxiety within Africa’s most advanced economy. The unrest comes as several countries report that their citizens have been targeted by xenophobic violence.
Tensions Rise Amid Protests
During his address, Ramaphosa acknowledged the ongoing tensions and the grievances expressed by citizens. Groups advocating for stricter immigration policies have set a June 30 deadline for foreigners living illegally in South Africa to exit the country and have called for discussions with the government.
A History of Xenophobia
South Africa’s history is marred by violence stemming from anti-immigrant sentiment, notably in 2008 when over 60 individuals lost their lives in what international human rights organizations deemed xenophobic attacks. The narrative continues to be shaped by calls for a crackdown on illegal migrants, fueled by recent protests that assert these individuals exacerbate high unemployment and strain public services.
Government’s Stance on Law and Order
While acknowledging the validity of the public’s concerns, Ramaphosa emphasized that unlawful actions would not be tolerated. He stated that only authorized government personnel are permitted to enforce immigration laws, cautioning that certain groups appear to be inciting tensions among communities.
Estimating the Immigrant Population
While official statistics are lacking, estimates suggest that between 2 million and 5 million immigrants reside in South Africa illegally, within a total population of 62 million. The nation, regarded as the wealthiest in the region, has historically attracted migrants from neighboring countries, including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, as well as from further afield, such as Nigeria and Ghana.
Sentiment from Across Africa
Recently, nations such as Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Mozambique have echoed concerns, reporting instances of intimidation and violence against their nationals in South Africa. In May, Ghana repatriated approximately 300 citizens, highlighting ongoing threats to its community. The Mozambican government has also reported fatalities related to recent xenophobic attacks, notably in Mossel Bay.
Renewed Immigration Policies Under Coalition Government
Since the formation of its coalition government in 2024, South Africa has intensified its focus on immigration control, claiming to have deported over 100,000 illegal immigrants in the last two years. Ramaphosa disclosed that around 450,000 individuals were prevented from entering South Africa without the necessary documentation last year. He acknowledged past shortcomings in managing immigration but insisted on the need for a more robust approach while urging citizens to refrain from turning against one another.
