South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has attributed rising xenophobic tensions in parts of the country to increasing illegal immigration, warning that undocumented migration is placing pressure on jobs, public services, and social stability in vulnerable communities.
The remarks were contained in a statement published on Monday on the official website of the South African Presidency amid renewed attacks and harassment targeting foreign nationals and foreign-owned businesses in Johannesburg and surrounding areas.
Ramaphosa condemned the recent violence, stressing that the attacks do not represent South African values or official government policy. He said the incidents were being driven by criminal elements exploiting socio-economic frustrations in poorer communities.
“The recent violent protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals in parts of our country do not represent the views of South Africa’s people nor reflect our government’s policy,” Ramaphosa said.
He, however, linked illegal immigration to growing pressure on public resources and labour markets, warning that the situation requires urgent but lawful intervention.
“At the same time, as a society, we need to deal decisively – and within the law – with the challenge of illegal immigration, which risks our social stability, governance and national security,” he added.
The South African president noted that undocumented migration was increasing strain on healthcare, housing, and municipal services, especially in already underserved communities. He also said it was distorting the labour market by encouraging some employers to hire cheaper undocumented foreign workers instead of local citizens.
Ramaphosa further warned that illegal immigration poses risks to “social stability, governance and national security,” adding that government enforcement would be strengthened through the Border Management Authority and other security agencies.
He also disclosed that authorities would intensify action against employers who violate immigration and labour laws.
South Africa has in recent years experienced repeated waves of xenophobic violence, often linked to unemployment, inequality, and competition in informal economic sectors. These tensions have occasionally escalated into attacks on foreign nationals, particularly African migrants operating small businesses in urban communities.
Previous outbreaks in 2008 and 2015 led to deaths, displacement, and diplomatic tensions across Africa, making immigration a recurring and sensitive political issue in the country.
The latest developments come as Nigeria intensifies diplomatic engagement with South African authorities over renewed attacks on foreign nationals.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) confirmed that at least two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, were killed in separate incidents linked to anti-foreigner violence. The Nigerian government has called for stronger protection of its citizens, improved security measures, and swift prosecution of perpetrators.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner over growing concerns about the safety of Nigerian nationals.
The situation has increased diplomatic pressure on South African authorities to address xenophobic violence while balancing immigration enforcement with human rights obligations.
