South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a sweeping crackdown on illegal migration, introducing new enforcement measures amid rising anti-foreigner sentiment and mounting social tensions.
In a national address, Ramaphosa outlined plans that include jail terms for employers who hire undocumented workers, the creation of special courts to fast-track deportations, and a nationwide biometric register covering all residents to curb identity fraud.
He also warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands, as reports of intimidation and violence against foreign nationals increase in parts of the country.
Several African countries have begun evacuating citizens from South Africa in recent weeks, while hundreds of migrants have fled their homes following reported threats and killings in parts of the Western Cape.
Anti-migrant groups have demanded that undocumented foreigners leave the country, setting a deadline of 30 June for compliance.
Ramaphosa said illegal migration was placing pressure on public services but stressed that government alone was responsible for enforcing immigration laws.
“No other person is allowed, for example, to confront someone in the street to demand proof of nationality,” he said.
He set out a five-point plan to address the issue, including tighter border controls, stronger law enforcement, anti-corruption measures within immigration services, legal reforms, and cooperation with other African countries.
The president said authorities would not tolerate vigilante action or attempts to exploit immigration concerns for political or criminal purposes.
He also warned against misinformation campaigns on social media, insisting that South Africa would not allow xenophobia or racism to take hold.
“Our country is a product of migration,” he said, adding that diversity remained central to South Africa’s national identity.
Authorities estimate that more than three million foreigners live in South Africa, although the true number of undocumented migrants is believed to be higher.
Ramaphosa said over 450,000 illegal entry attempts had been blocked in the past year and accused some employers of exploiting undocumented workers through low wages and weak penalties.
He announced plans to deploy 10,000 labour inspectors and introduce tougher sanctions, including imprisonment for violators.
The government also plans to phase out green ID books, citing their vulnerability to identity theft, and move towards a digital identification system.
Other reforms include relocating refugee reception centres to border posts, regulating informal businesses such as township spaza shops, and introducing sector-based quotas for foreign employment.
Ramaphosa said envoys would be sent across Africa to communicate the new policies and promote regional cooperation.
He ended by calling for unity, saying South Africa would overcome current challenges and build a “secure, lawful, compassionate and prosperous” nation.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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