President Mashatile Calls for Balanced Approach to Migration

Government leaders at the meeting emphasised that these actions are intended to protect national interests while maintaining South Africa’s commitment to human rights and democratic values.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for a balanced and humane approach to migration, saying it remains an important part of South Africa's history and present-day reality. Speaking during a special meeting with the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders and the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, Mashatile said migration should be managed in a way that promotes unity, stability and shared prosperity.

Drawing on the values of Ubuntu, he stressed that migration issues should not create divisions among communities. Instead, the country should work towards building a society that is safe, inclusive and capable of creating opportunities for all who live within its borders.

Government Pushes Ahead with Five-Pillar Migration Plan

The meeting reaffirmed support for the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The strategy is built around five key pillars aimed at improving migration governance across the country. The plan focuses on reducing irregular migration, strengthening border security and ensuring that labour and immigration laws are properly enforced. It also seeks to protect constitutional principles and safeguard the dignity and rights of individuals.

Presidency Director-General Phindile Baleni outlined progress being made through coordinated government efforts. Authorities are working to improve border management systems while implementing lawful measures to address the challenges associated with undocumented migration.

Government leaders at the meeting emphasised that these actions are intended to protect national interests while maintaining South Africa's commitment to human rights and democratic values.

Traditional Leaders Pledge Support in Communities

Traditional and Khoi-San leaders highlighted the important role they play in maintaining social stability, particularly in rural areas and communities located near border regions. As custodians of cultural heritage and community wellbeing, they committed to supporting initiatives that improve local governance and migration management. This includes helping to register businesses, maintaining records relating to foreign nationals and assisting with efforts to ease tensions in areas experiencing migration-related pressures.

Participants expressed strong support for President Ramaphosa's call to fully implement the migration management plan. They agreed that migration must be handled in a manner that protects South Africa's sovereignty while also strengthening democracy, promoting social cohesion and fostering peaceful coexistence among communities.

The meeting reinforced the view that cooperation between government, traditional leaders and local communities will be essential in addressing migration challenges and creating lasting solutions that benefit the country as a whole.