South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called on Tuesday for stricter enforcement of immigration laws, saying illegal migration is putting pressure on public services, while warning against xenophobia, vigilantism and social division.
Speaking during a national address, Ramaphosa said migration can contribute to economic growth when properly managed, but stressed the need for stronger control of flows.
“We need to deal with illegal migration,” he said. “We have seen how illegal immigration into our country can put pressure on our public services and undermine our efforts to create decent work for all.”
He added that the government is stepping up enforcement measures, including measures to clamp down on employers of illegal immigrants, a stronger legal framework for dealing with violations, as well as tougher border security operations.
“We're cracking down on violations of immigration laws,” Ramaphosa said. “We are increasing our inspections of workplaces and prosecuting employers who violate our labour laws. We are strengthening border security, stamping out corruption in the immigration system and closing the loopholes in fragmented immigration laws.”
At the same time, he warned that enforcement must not fuel discrimination or violence against foreign nationals.
“We must never give in to violence, to xenophobia, and to vigilantism,” he said.
According to Statistics South Africa and the Department of Home Affairs, foreign-born residents account for an estimated 3–5% of the country’s population, with Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho among the main countries of origin.
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