President Ramaphosa Calls Out Xenophobia
South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, spoke openly about the mistreatment of foreigners living in the country. He said the nation should feel “deeply ashamed” when people from other African countries face discrimination, intimidation, or violence.
What He Said in Durban
During a public lecture at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal in Durban, Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa cannot claim to want closer regional ties while its own residents harass those seen as “coming from elsewhere.”
- He urged citizens to build a Southern Africa where everyone’s equal rights are respected.
- He warned that allowing intimidation goes against the solidarity that founded the community.
- Ramaphosa called the recent attacks a “repudiation” of the values South Africa stands for.
Why the Comments Matter
The president’s remarks come at a time when tensions over undocumented migration are rising. Thousands of foreign nationals have left or been removed from South Africa in recent months.
- Anti‑foreigner sentiment has sparked protests in several provinces.
- The government has increased immigration enforcement, citing pressure to curb illegal migration.
- Ramaphosa’s words aim to remind South Africans that mistreating newcomers harms the country’s reputation and undermines regional cooperation.
Protests and the March and March Movement
A civic group called March and March has been at the forefront of the demonstrations. Led by Jacinta Ngobese‑Zuma, the movement demands that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country and pushes for stronger government action on illegal immigration.
- On June 30, the group organized nationwide protests, with rallies in many provinces.
- Ngobese‑Zuma has pledged to continue marching every Thursday until the government meets their demands.
Government Response and Ongoing Tensions
Authorities have responded by stepping up checks and deportations, but the situation remains volatile.
Undocumented Migration Concerns
Officials say they are trying to manage the flow of people entering South Africa without proper papers, which they argue strains public services and jobs.
Civic Action and Demands
March and March insists that stricter enforcement is necessary, while human‑rights groups warn that harsh measures can lead to abuses and deepen xenophobia.
Looking Forward
Ramaphosa’s call for shame and concern highlights a critical choice for South Africa: continue down a path of exclusion or work toward a society where everyone—regardless of origin—is treated with dignity.
The coming weeks will show whether protests, policy changes, and public dialogue can shift the narrative from fear to fairness, allowing the country to live up to its promise of being a welcoming home for all Africans.
