South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a sweeping crackdown on illegal immigration, including plans for dedicated immigration courts, tougher penalties for employers who hire undocumented migrants, and the phased relocation of refugee reception centres to South Africa’s borders.
In a national address,President Ramaphosa has acknowledged growing public concern over illegal immigration, border security, unemployment, crime and pressure on public services, while insisting that the enforcement of immigration laws must remain the responsibility of the state.
The President says government would intensify efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals, strengthen border controls, and increase inspections of businesses suspected of employing undocumented workers.
Employers found to be exploiting undocumented migrants could face harsher penalties, including imprisonment.
Among the key measures announced are the establishment of dedicated immigration courts to speed up deportation processes, the recruitment of 10,000 labour inspectors, and the introduction of employment quotas for foreign nationals in certain sectors, and the creation of a biometric-based population register linked to a future digital identity system.
President Ramaphosa has also announced plans to phase out South Africa’s green ID books and close legal loopholes that have been exploited within the immigration system. Government will further tighten regulations governing vehicle registration by foreign nationals and continue anti-corruption investigations within the Department of Home Affairs.
While describing illegal immigration as a significant challenge that affects service delivery, labour markets and national security, Ramaphosa rejected xenophobia and warned against vigilante actions targeting foreign nationals. He stressed that no individual or community group has the authority to demand proof of nationality from others or enforce immigration laws.
The President says South Africa remains committed to its constitutional values and international obligations, including protecting refugees and asylum seekers. However, he maintained that every person living, working or operating a business in the country should do so legally.
The South African Government’s new migration strategy, recently approved by Cabinet, will also focus on regional cooperation through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union to address the root causes of migration, including conflict, poverty and lack of economic opportunity.
President Ramaphosa says the measures are aimed at creating a South Africa where immigration laws are respected, businesses compete fairly, communities feel secure, and human dignity is upheld.
By Rachel Mumba
