Ramaphosa Announces Five Measures to Tackle Illegal Immigration Amid Rising Tensions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a series of measures aimed at addressing growing public concerns over illegal immigration and border security as tensions around undocumented migrants continue to rise across South Africa.

The president addressed the nation on Sunday following weeks of anti-immigrant protests and increasing pressure on government to act against undocumented foreign nationals living in the country. Demonstrations have been reported in several provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, with some communities demanding stricter immigration enforcement.

One of the groups at the centre of the protests is March and March, an anti-migrant movement that has been organising demonstrations and calling for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa by June 30. The group’s campaign has sparked fear among some foreign nationals, with reports indicating that several migrants have already left certain communities due to concerns over possible violence and planned shutdown actions at the end of the month.

In his address, Ramaphosa acknowledged that many South Africans feel frustrated about immigration, unemployment and crime, saying government could not ignore the concerns being raised by citizens.

“South Africans are asking difficult but legitimate questions,” the president said. “They are concerned about safety, security and the rule of law. These concerns are real, and they deserve to be addressed.”

Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa remains a constitutional democracy governed by law and warned against vigilante actions targeting foreign nationals. He said only authorised law enforcement and immigration officials have the legal authority to deal with immigration violations.

“No individual or group has the right to stop people on the streets, demand identification documents or threaten foreign nationals,” he said. “Such actions undermine the rule of law and threaten social stability.”

The president outlined five key interventions government will implement to strengthen immigration management and improve border control.

The first measure involves intensifying operations against undocumented migrants and criminal syndicates linked to human trafficking, illegal border crossings and fraudulent documentation. Authorities will also increase collaboration between police, immigration officials and intelligence agencies to combat organised crime connected to illegal migration.

Secondly, government plans to strengthen border management systems to reduce illegal entry into the country. Ramaphosa said the Border Management Authority would receive additional support and resources to improve surveillance and monitoring at ports of entry.

The third intervention focuses on improving the efficiency of the immigration system, including visa processing, asylum applications and deportation procedures. Government has faced criticism in recent years over delays and backlogs within the Department of Home Affairs, with some cases taking years to process.

The fourth measure includes cracking down on corruption involving immigration officials and syndicates accused of selling fraudulent permits and identity documents. Ramaphosa said corruption within the system weakens national security and damages public trust in government institutions.

The fifth intervention involves working with communities and civil society organisations to prevent violence and xenophobic attacks while promoting lawful solutions to immigration challenges.

Ramaphosa also urged South Africans not to blame all foreign nationals for the country’s economic and social difficulties. He said many migrants contribute positively to the economy and society through business activities, labour and skills development.

South Africa has long struggled with high unemployment, poverty and crime, factors that have fuelled tensions between local communities and foreign nationals. Competition for jobs and access to public services has often intensified frustrations, particularly in poorer communities.

Political parties and civil society groups remain divided on how government should respond. Some organisations have called for tougher border controls and stricter immigration laws, while others warned against xenophobia and collective punishment of migrants.

Human rights groups have also expressed concern over inflammatory rhetoric during recent protests, warning that anti-migrant campaigns could escalate into violence similar to previous xenophobic attacks witnessed in the country over the years.

Ramaphosa appealed for calm and unity, saying government would continue enforcing the law while protecting the rights and dignity of everyone living in South Africa.

“We must resolve these challenges through lawful means,” he said. “We cannot allow fear, anger or frustration to divide our communities or lead to violence.”