News Desk Reporter
A coordinated response from African countries is needed to tackle illegal migration, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said today, stressing that no country can solve the challenge on its own.
Addressing a media briefing at the Union Buildings, Magwenya rejected claims that South Africa is becoming isolated because of its approach to illegal migration or its foreign policy.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa believes illegal migration cannot be addressed by one country alone and has urged African leaders to develop a coordinated response,” Magwenya said.
He said lasting solutions would depend on African leaders confronting both the conditions driving people to leave their home countries and the factors drawing them to destinations such as South Africa.
“Our approach is based on cooperation, not confrontation,” Magwenya said.
“This is not about South Africa assuming a superior position or blaming neighbouring countries. It is a constructive discussion that must take place as part of our broader continental development agenda.”
He said efforts to support peace in countries including South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo also form part of addressing the instability that often forces people to migrate.
Magwenya said African leaders who have engaged with Ramaphosa recognise the migration pressures facing South Africa and support continued dialogue on possible solutions.
He also dismissed suggestions that South Africa’s influence on the continent is weakening. He pointed to the country’s role in securing the African Union’s full membership of the G20 as evidence that it continues to play an important role internationally.
“The view that South Africa’s voice of authority is waning is quite far from the truth as well as the reality,” he said.
Responding to reports of strained relations with Ghana and Nigeria, Magwenya said there was no evidence that Ghanaian nationals had been disproportionately affected during recent anti-illegal migration protests.
He also warned against calls to nationalise South African businesses operating elsewhere in Africa.
“The economic and trade relationship between these countries is mutually beneficial. It is not a one-way street,” he said.
Magwenya dismissed concerns that anti immigration campaigns had damaged the country’s reputation. He said recent engagements between President Ramaphosa and international investors demonstrated that confidence in South Africa remained strong.
He added that government has already published a constitutional plan to deal with illegal migration. The President has also consulted traditional leaders, business, organised labour and other stakeholders as part of what Magwenya described as an inclusive approach.