By: Bright Ntuli
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, says South Africa is seeking a more coordinated, continent-wide approach to migration management.
His remarks come amid renewed concerns about xenophobic violence following anti-immigrant protests in parts of the country in recent weeks. The demonstrations have reignited tensions and drawn criticism from several African nations.
Governments of Nigeria, Ghana and Mozambique have formally lodged complaints with Pretoria over the treatment of their nationals, urging stronger protections and swift action against intimidation and violence.
Lamola said South Africa is working to strengthen its immigration framework while balancing enforcement with regional cooperation. He emphasised the need for African countries to collaborate more closely in addressing migration flows, including tackling root causes such as economic inequality, conflict and climate-related displacement.
He added that the government is tightening measures to ensure compliance with immigration laws, particularly in relation to undocumented migrants and businesses that employ them.
“The Department of Home Affairs has issued a White Paper on Immigration, which addresses a number of issues, including irregular migration, enforcement of compliance by businesses, and the processes through which individuals may acquire citizenship in South Africa,” said Lamola.
The White Paper forms part of broader efforts to modernise the country’s migration system, improve border management and promote lawful, orderly migration in line with regional and international obligations.
