Ramaphosa Blames Corruption, Exploitation For South Africa’s Migration Crisis, Condemns Xenophobia

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobia and warned that corruption and the exploitation of undocumented migrants by South Africans are worsening the country’s migration crisis.
In a statement issued by the presidency on Monday, Ramaphosa said some citizens were aiding illegal migration through fraudulent marriages, the illegal sale of state-subsidised homes and bribery linked to access to public services. He also accused employers in households and the informal sector of taking advantage of undocumented foreign nationals as cheap labour.
According to the president, these activities deepen social tensions and undermine efforts to manage migration effectively.
“South African citizens who collude with undocumented foreign nationals in fake marriages, the illegal sale of state-subsidised housing or accepting bribes to facilitate access to social services only deepen the problem,” Ramaphosa said.
He stressed that while South Africa would continue to protect its borders and enforce immigration laws, xenophobia and violence against foreigners would not be tolerated.
“We must make it clear that there is no place in South Africa for xenophobia, ethnic mobilisation, intolerance or violence,” he stated.
Ramaphosa defended South Africa’s refugee policy, saying the country allows refugees to integrate into communities, participate in the economy and access education and healthcare services instead of being confined to camps.
The president also highlighted South Africa’s role in promoting African integration and regional cooperation since the end of apartheid in 1994. He noted that more than eight million African tourists visited the country last year and pointed to South Africa’s hosting of African students, academics and the Pan-African Parliament as evidence of its continental ties.
He warned that isolated acts of criminality should not damage relations between South Africa and other African nations.
Ramaphosa added that undocumented migration is a global challenge and called for greater cooperation among countries in addressing migration-related tensions.