President Cyril Ramaphosa outlined a five-part plan to address illegal immigration in a televised address on 7 June, while condemning xenophobic groups. Protests continue across South Africa, with repatriations of Malawian nationals underway from KwaZulu-Natal.
In his address, Ramaphosa said the government would crack down on violations of immigration and labour laws. He announced plans for specialised courts to speed up deportations and the phased recruitment of 10,000 labour inspectors.
The plan also includes securing borders with modern technology, relocating refugee reception centres to border posts starting later this year, and rooting out corruption in the immigration system. Ramaphosa further proposed dispatching envoys to African nations and closing legislative gaps through new bills.
About 2,400 Malawian nationals at a shelter in Durban are set to begin their journey home on seven buses provided by the Malawian government. eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said officials have verified passenger lists and will escort the buses to the border.
Civil society groups have criticised the measures as recycled policies that fail to address root causes like unemployment. Protests led by groups such as March and March have continued in areas including Boksburg and Benoni.
