President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced new measures to strengthen border control and enforce immigration laws, eliciting support from the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs. The committee has urged for urgent implementation of these directives, signalling a collective drive to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration in South Africa.
Government’s Stance on Immigration Enforcement
During a national address on June 7, 2026, Ramaphosa acknowledged the country’s weaknesses in managing migration. He reiterated that enforcement of immigration laws is solely the responsibility of the state, urging citizens against assuming roles as enforcers. “No other person is allowed, for example, to confront someone in the street to demand proof of nationality,” he stated, reinforcing the need for lawfulness.
Focus on Labour Compliance
To bolster its efforts, the government plans to employ an additional 10,000 labour inspectors dedicated to ensuring compliance with immigration and labour laws. Ramaphosa has expressed concern over employers who exploit undocumented workers, emphasising that such practices undermine labour standards and fair competition. He stated that violations will incur stricter penalties and enforcement measures.
“We welcome the clear and comprehensive directives issued by the President. We urge government departments to urgently implement all the plans outlined… A failure to implement these measures will undermine the authority of the Head of State,” said Mosa Chabane, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.
These announcements come amid rising tensions and public concern over immigration’s impact on local resources and job opportunities. The government’s proactive approach aims to counter xenophobia and promote a lawful framework for managing immigration.