Pretoria: The South African government has announced a Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, focusing on strengthening border security, enforcing immigration laws, addressing corruption, and closing policy loopholes to combat illegal immigration.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Sunday, revealing that the plan had been adopted by the Cabinet last week and endorsed by the President's Coordinating Council. This council includes Premiers, local government representatives, and traditional leaders. The President emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that every person entering South Africa does so legally, with immigration laws being respected and enforced.
The strategy rests on five key pillars: cracking down on immigration and labor law violations, preventing illegal entry, eradicating corruption within the immigration system, strengthening immigration laws and policies, and collaborating with other countries to address migration challenges on a regional and continental scale.
The first pillar involves a coordinated effort to enforce existing laws. The Department of Home Affairs, Border Management Authority (BMA), South African Police Service (SAPS), and other law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals. President Ramaphosa noted that in the past year alone, over 450,000 people attempting illegal entry were intercepted by the BMA. Additionally, dedicated courts will be established to expedite the deportation process.
The second pillar focuses on securing borders, with the government investing in modern technology, infrastructure, and personnel. Plans include relocating refugee reception centers to border posts, beginning with the Tshwane center this year, to facilitate legitimate trade and travel.
The third pillar targets corruption within the immigration system. The government is committed to rooting out corruption and improving efficiency in the Department of Home Affairs. The establishment of an Intelligent Population Register containing biometric data is underway to lay the foundation for a Digital ID. Plans to phase out the vulnerable green ID book will also help curb identity theft and associated criminal activities.
The fourth pillar addresses gaps in current laws and policies. President Ramaphosa acknowledged the fragmented and contradictory nature of existing immigration laws, which create legal loopholes exploited by undocumented migrants. Efforts are underway to close these gaps.
The final pillar involves international cooperation to tackle broader migration challenges. South Africa aims to work with other African countries to ensure that migration is a choice rather than a necessity. The President announced plans to send envoys to several African nations to discuss the new measures.
President Ramaphosa concluded by affirming that the Cabinet will continue to monitor and review the implementation of these measures to ensure progress in managing migration effectively.