Yasmin Bilal
With the country preparing for a planned nationwide anti-illegal immigration protest on 30 June, President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with Kings and Queens to discuss the government’s approach to managing migration and rising tensions in communities.
He addressed the gathering of traditional leaders on Saturday, saying the meeting was aimed at briefing them on government policy while also drawing on their experience and authority within local communities.
Ramaphosa said migration has long been part of regional history and identity. He said people across southern Africa are linked through ancestry, language and culture that predate modern borders.
He acknowledged growing public concern over illegal immigration. He said these concerns are being expressed in a context of high unemployment, poverty and pressure on public services.
“Yet illegal immigration is not the cause of our social and economic difficulties,” he said. “To tackle the challenges our country faces, we need faster and more inclusive growth, job creation and development.”
He said migration must be managed within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law. He stressed that enforcement remains the responsibility of the state.
The President warned against rising tensions linked to anti-foreign sentiment. He said misinformation and disinformation have worsened divisions in some communities.
He added that violence, intimidation and unrest damage social cohesion and put lives at risk.
“We must do so while always holding firm to our Constitutional principles and shared values,” he said.
Ramaphosa outlined the government’s five-pillar approach to managing migration. He said the plan focuses on stricter enforcement of immigration and labour laws and stronger border management.
He also highlighted reforms to the immigration system, closing legal loopholes, and improving coordination with regional partners through SADC and the African Union.
He said traditional leaders play a critical role in maintaining stability at the community level. He urged them to use their influence to reduce tensions and prevent violence.
“Our Kings and Queens have a vital role to play in this effort,” he said.
He called for dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes in communities experiencing pressure linked to migration.
Ramaphosa said government and traditional leadership must work together to address deeper structural challenges, including poverty and unemployment.
He added that migration management will remain a long-term priority requiring continued cooperation between state institutions, traditional authorities and wider society.