Xenophobia: Ramaphosa warns South Africans, says only govt can question foreigners

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday warned citizens against xenophobic attacks, harassment, and vigilante actions targeting foreign nationals, stressing that only authorised government agencies have the right to enforce immigration laws.

In a televised national address, Ramaphosa condemned intimidation, unlawful demands for identification, and the blocking of public services such as clinics, hospitals, and schools. He said such actions have no place in South Africa and warned that groups exploiting legitimate grievances about illegal immigration for political, personal, or criminal ends would be dealt with firmly.

“Government will take decisive action to address violations of our immigration laws,” the president said. “No other person is allowed, for example, to confront someone in the street to demand proof of nationality. We know South Africans are not xenophobic. Violence, intimidation, and exploitation have no place in our country.”

Ramaphosa highlighted that undocumented foreign workers are sometimes exploited by unscrupulous employers who pay below minimum wage and require long working hours without proper compensation. “Employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers and exploit their vulnerability are breaking the law,” he said, adding that such conduct undermines fair competition and opportunities for South Africans.

The president also announced a Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, approved by cabinet last week. The strategy aims to prevent illegal entry, strengthen law enforcement, close loopholes in immigration laws, root out corruption, and enhance regional cooperation.

As part of the plan, the Department of Home Affairs, Border Management Authority, and South African Police Service will intensify operations to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals. The BMA intercepted over 450,000 people attempting illegal entry last year alone.

Ramaphosa further said the government will introduce dedicated immigration courts to fast-track deportations, relocate refugee reception centres to border posts, and implement technology-driven reforms such as a Biometric Intelligent Population Register to replace vulnerable green ID books.

He reassured residents that these measures are not meant to intimidate foreign nationals but to ensure safety, uphold the rule of law, and protect communities. Special envoys will also engage African countries diplomatically to explain the reforms and manage any tensions resulting from unrest.