By: Phakeme Mnguni
March and March founder and leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa and his administration to take decisive action on what she describes as an escalating immigration crisis in South Africa.
Speaking publicly on the issue, Ngobese-Zuma said the influx of undocumented foreign nationals is placing pressure on public services, employment opportunities and local communities. She criticised the president for what she called a lack of visible leadership on the matter.
Ngobese-Zuma claimed that while Ramaphosa has acknowledged being aware of the challenges surrounding undocumented migration, he has failed to implement meaningful interventions. She added that this has eroded public confidence in commitments made during previous State of the Nation Addresses.
The issue of undocumented immigration has remained a contentious topic in South Africa, with various political parties and civic movements demanding stricter border control, improved immigration systems and tougher enforcement against illegal employment practices.
The government has previously stated that it is working to strengthen border management through the Border Management Authority and improve documentation processes at the Department of Home Affairs. However, critics argue that implementation has been slow and inconsistent.
