President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a national address on Sunday, 7 June 2026, at 18:00, focusing on the government's approach to managing illegal migration and responding to recent anti-foreigner protests.
The speech acknowledged public concerns while emphasizing the rule of law, rejecting vigilantism and xenophobia, and outlining a comprehensive strategy. Here is a clear outline of the key sections and points:
1. Introduction and Acknowledgment of Concerns
Addressed legitimate public frustrations about illegal immigration, its impact on jobs, public services (healthcare, education), safety, security, and the rule of law.
Noted that these issues are raised across communities, workplaces, schools, clinics, and social media.
Stressed that concerns are real and deserve to be heard and addressed.
2. Broader Context and Root Causes
Recognized South Africa's high unemployment (especially among youth), poverty, and economic struggles as key drivers of frustration.
Clarified that illegal immigration is not the root cause of all economic problems; the solution lies in faster economic growth, investment, industrial expansion, infrastructure, and job creation.
Framed migration as a global issue and highlighted South Africa's history as a nation shaped by migration and diversity.
3. Principles Guiding the Response
Every person in South Africa should be here legally; work and business must comply with laws.
Commitment to upholding human rights and international obligations for those needing protection.
Enforcement of laws is the state's responsibility alone β no vigilantism or street confrontations.
Rejection of xenophobia, racism, Afrophobia, or intolerance; warned against exploitation by political/criminal elements or misinformation on social media.
Noted that anti-foreigner sentiment sometimes spills into attacks on fellow South Africans.
4. Challenges Posed by Illegal Migration
Strains public services and security.
Links to organized crime (trafficking, drugs, illegal mining).
Undermines job creation through exploitation of undocumented workers (below-minimum wages, poor conditions).
Concerns about foreign nationals in informal businesses (e.g., spaza shops) squeezing out locals.
5. Government's Comprehensive Strategy (Key Actions)
Cabinet recently adopted a Comprehensive Approach to Migration Management. Main pillars include:
Crackdown on violations: Intensified identification and deportation of undocumented foreigners; dedicated immigration courts; increased workplace inspections; recruitment of 10,000 labour inspectors; harsher penalties (including imprisonment) for employers exploiting undocumented workers.
Securing borders: Investment in technology, infrastructure, and personnel; phased relocation of refugee reception centres to borders (starting with Tshwane); efficient processing of asylum claims.
Stamping out corruption: Crackdown in Home Affairs; pursuit of corrupt officials; introduction of Intelligent Population Register, Digital ID, and phase-out of green ID books; new regulations on Traffic Registration Numbers.
Strengthening laws and policies: Closing fragmented/contradictory laws and loopholes.
Regional/continental engagement: Working with African countries for broader solutions to migration challenges.
6. Conclusion and Call for Unity
Reiterated goals: Lawful entry, enforced laws, fair competition, safe communities, and constitutional values.
Urged unity, respect for the law, and focus on building a safer, more prosperous society without turning against each other.