Xenophobic: President Ramaphosa Says Undocumented Migration Straining Jobs, Public Services in South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has linked the country’s rising xenophobic tensions to the growing challenge of illegal immigration, warning that undocumented migration is increasing pressure on jobs, public services, and social stability in already vulnerable communities.

In a statement released Monday through the South African Presidency, Ramaphosa condemned recent attacks and harassment targeting foreign nationals and foreign-owned businesses in Johannesburg and surrounding areas.

He stressed that the violence does not reflect the values of South Africans or official government policy, describing the incidents as criminal acts fueled by socio-economic frustrations in poorer communities.

“The recent violent protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals in parts of our country do not represent the views of South Africa’s people nor reflect our government’s policy,” Ramaphosa stated.

The South African leader, however, acknowledged that illegal immigration has become a major governance and security concern.

According to him, undocumented migration is placing additional strain on healthcare systems, housing, municipal infrastructure, and other public services, particularly in densely populated and underserved communities.

“At the same time, as a society, we need to deal decisively, and within the law, with the challenge of illegal immigration, which risks our social stability, governance and national security,” he said.

Ramaphosa also argued that undocumented migration is affecting the labour market, accusing some employers of exploiting illegal immigrants as a source of cheaper labour instead of hiring South African citizens.

He warned that such practices deepen unemployment pressures and heighten tensions between local residents and migrant communities.

To address the situation, the president said the government would strengthen enforcement measures through the Border Management Authority and other security agencies.

He added that authorities would intensify action against employers found violating immigration and labour regulations.

South Africa has experienced repeated waves of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, often driven by high unemployment, widening inequality, and competition within the informal economy.

Migrants from other African countries, many of whom run small businesses in townships and urban settlements, have frequently become targets during periods of economic hardship.

Foreign-owned shops often compete directly with local traders, leading to disputes over pricing, business space, and regulatory compliance.

Analysts say these tensions are frequently worsened by poor service delivery, poverty, and frustration over limited economic opportunities in low-income communities.

Major outbreaks of xenophobic violence in 2008 and 2015 resulted in deaths, mass displacement, destruction of businesses, and diplomatic tensions across Africa.

The attacks drew widespread condemnation from African governments and human rights organisations, placing South Africa under pressure to improve migrant protection and address the root causes of anti-foreigner sentiment.

The latest unrest has again drawn diplomatic attention, particularly from Nigeria.

The Nigerian government recently intensified engagement with South African authorities following renewed attacks on foreign nationals.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner on Monday, May 4, amid concerns over the safety of Nigerian citizens living in the country.

The meeting was aimed at seeking clarification on the incidents and demanding stronger protection measures for Nigerians residing in South Africa.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) also raised alarm over the situation, confirming that two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, were killed in separate incidents linked to anti-foreigner violence.

NIDCOM called for increased security presence, swift prosecution of those responsible, and stronger bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa to prevent recurring xenophobic attacks.

The renewed violence has once again highlighted the difficult balance South African authorities face between tightening immigration enforcement and upholding human rights obligations, as pressure mounts on the government to contain rising social tensions without fueling further hostility toward foreign nationals.