INSIGHT | Ramaphosa walks tightrope over migrant crisis tensions and diplomacy

As I listened to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Freedom Day speech, I could not shake the feeling he was treading carefully around the immigration crisis confronting our country. It seemed he was addressing two very different audiences at once, and in doing so, not fully connecting with either. He acknowledged the legitimate concerns of communities affected byillegal immigration.

He urged South Africans to remain tolerant towards foreign nationals, while also emphasising that migrants must respect their host country. His central message was that our frustrations must not descend into hatred of “our fellow Africans”. He situated SA’s challenges within a broader global context, arguing that migration pressures are not unique to this country, and invoked the solidarity African states extended to us during our liberation struggle.

Yet, on closer reflection, it became apparent that his message was not directed solely at ordinary South Africans grappling with the realities of illegal immigration. It was also aimed at reassuring diplomats, African governments, and the international community of SA’s continued commitment to African solidarity. That, in itself, is telling.

[paywall]

It says SA’s immigration crisis is no longer merely a domestic issue but has evolved into a full-blown diplomatic concern. Across the continent, frustration with SA is rising, particularly in the wake of recent anti-foreigner protests. A troubling narrative is also gaining ground that SA is failing to protect African migrants within its borders.

[/paywall]