President Ramaphosa Calls for Unity on Migration Challenges

Ramaphosa acknowledged that many South Africans are worried about migration, particularly in areas facing high unemployment, poverty, crime and pressure on public services.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on religious and interfaith leaders to help promote unity and social cohesion as South Africa works to address concerns around migration and illegal immigration. The President met faith leaders at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday to discuss migration management and the National Dialogue, two issues he described as closely linked to the country's shared values and future development.

The engagement follows the government's recent announcement of measures aimed at strengthening migration management amid growing public concern about illegal immigration and its impact on communities. Ramaphosa acknowledged that many South Africans are worried about migration, particularly in areas facing high unemployment, poverty, crime and pressure on public services.

Migration Not the Cause of South Africa's Problems

While recognising these concerns, the President stressed that illegal immigration should not be blamed for the country's wider social and economic challenges. He said South Africa's difficulties stem from deeper issues that require stronger economic growth, increased investment and greater job creation. Efforts to reduce poverty and hunger, improve public safety and tackle corruption also remain essential to improving living conditions.

Ramaphosa said migration must be managed responsibly and collectively while remaining aligned with the Constitution and the country's democratic values.

He urged faith leaders to work alongside government and other sectors of society to prevent frustration over migration from turning into hatred, discrimination or intolerance.

According to the President, South Africa needs solutions that address legitimate concerns while strengthening community relationships and social stability.

Five-Pillar Plan Gains Support from Religious Leaders

Religious and interfaith leaders welcomed government's comprehensive migration management strategy, which is built around five key pillars.

These include enforcing migration laws, securing national borders, strengthening immigration systems, closing legal and policy gaps, and working with African countries through diplomatic channels to address migration challenges.

Participants also discussed concerns about vigilantism, the need for stronger public communication from government and increased diplomatic engagement with neighbouring countries. Attention was also drawn to challenges affecting the Sherwood area in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Government informed the meeting that the Department of Home Affairs has begun deportation processes through dedicated priority courts to speed up the handling of Malawian nationals seeking to return home. The intervention comes as Malawi faces capacity constraints in managing repatriation efforts.

The Department of Social Development is also expected to provide relief support where needed.

Ramaphosa used the meeting to highlight the importance of the National Dialogue, describing it as a people-led process that will allow South Africans to shape a shared vision for the country through discussions taking place at local and national levels.

He said faith communities have an important role to play because of their presence in villages, townships and suburbs across the country, making them key partners in ensuring broad public participation.

The President thanked the religious and interfaith leaders for their contributions and expressed appreciation for their continued involvement in efforts to address migration challenges and strengthen national unity.