South Africa has deported or repatriated more than 53,000 foreign nationals since launching a "migration management" campaign five weeks ago, the government announced Sunday. Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stated that the majority of those processed were from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with the number expected to increase as operations continue.
This initiative represents one of the most significant crackdowns on undocumented migrants in South Africa in years, following weeks of protests characterized by violence, intimidation, and looting. Demonstrators have called for stricter border controls and mass deportations, attributing unemployment, crime, and the strain on public services to foreign nationals.
The United Nations has cautioned against using migrants as scapegoats for the nation's socioeconomic challenges. Anti-migrant activists had previously set an "unofficial deadline" of June 30 for all undocumented migrants to leave the country, prompting many foreigners to depart to escape escalating violence and intimidation.
Several African nations, including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, and Kenya, have organized flights to bring their citizens home. Minister Kubayi confirmed that 53,499 foreign nationals had been processed, with Malawians forming the largest group, followed by Zimbabweans and Mozambicans.
"We are striving to achieve an orderly and regular migration which is mindful and sensitive to the concerns raised by our people, while observing human rights and dignity of all people in our country, irrespective of their citizenship and immigration status," Kubayi told a news conference in Pretoria. She also noted that the deportation and repatriation process had aided in apprehending individuals sought by police for alleged criminal activities.
Authorities stated they will continue to enforce immigration laws. However, Kubayi warned protesters against conducting unauthorized searches of homes and businesses suspected of harboring undocumented migrants. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns regarding immigration but has also condemned attacks against migrants, urging citizens not to resort to vigilantism.
South Africa, the continent's wealthiest nation, has historically attracted migrants seeking economic opportunities, some of whom enter the country illegally. The ongoing campaign aims to manage migration while balancing public sentiment with human rights considerations.