Ramaphosa Defends Firm Action Against Illegal Immigration

The President urged South Africans to support lawful measures while rejecting violence, intimidation and misinformation.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed that the government is taking decisive action to address illegal immigration while responding to concerns raised by communities across the country. In his weekly newsletter published on Monday, the President acknowledged growing public unease about the impact of undocumented migration on employment, economic opportunities and public services.

Migration has become a major topic of public debate in recent weeks, with protests against illegal immigration taking place in several parts of the country. Ramaphosa said the government recognises concerns that some businesses employ undocumented foreign nationals in violation of labour laws, while others believe that foreign-owned spaza shops are creating difficulties for local traders.

The President also noted concerns regarding pressure on public services such as hospitals, clinics and schools. Although official data shows that foreign nationals account for only a small share of users of these services, he acknowledged that many South Africans remain worried about the strain on public resources.

Thousands Arrested as Government Expands Crackdown

Ramaphosa said the government's Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, already approved by Cabinet, is producing results through stronger enforcement of immigration and labour regulations. According to the President, the Border Management Authority prevented around 450,000 attempted illegal border crossings over the past year. In the last three weeks alone, more than 5,000 undocumented migrants were arrested for violating immigration laws. Since January 1, 2026, law enforcement operations have resulted in the arrest of 34,798 illegal immigrants across the country. During the previous financial year, authorities arrested 76,588 undocumented migrants.

Government is also establishing dedicated courts to deal with immigration-related cases more efficiently and accelerate deportation processes. Additional resources and advanced technologies are being deployed to strengthen border security, while efforts are underway to eliminate corruption and improve the effectiveness of the immigration system. The President revealed that legislative reforms are being prepared to address loopholes in citizenship and immigration laws. Proposed changes include sector-specific quotas for foreign nationals and stricter requirements for the registration of informal businesses.

President Calls for Unity and Respect for the Rule of Law

While emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement, Ramaphosa cautioned communities against taking matters into their own hands. He stressed that only authorized government officials have the legal authority to enforce immigration laws. The President urged South Africans to support lawful measures while rejecting violence, intimidation and misinformation. He called on traditional leaders, religious organizations, businesses, labour groups, civil society and political parties to work together in maintaining social cohesion.

Ramaphosa warned against attempts to use concerns about migration to promote xenophobia, racism, Afrophobia or other forms of discrimination. He said South Africa's response must remain guided by the Constitution, the rule of law and international commitments. Reaffirming the country's position, the President said South Africa would continue to pursue a firm but fair migration policy. He described the nation as one shaped by migration and cultural diversity, adding that stronger laws and consistent enforcement can address illegal immigration while preserving human dignity and social unity.