Ramaphosa rejects claims South Africa is xenophobic amid migrant protests

   Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has rejected claims that South Africa is xenophobic, as protests over undocumented migrants continue in parts of the country.

His spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, said the characterisation was “a lazy analysis” of a more complex situation, adding that immigration remains a sensitive issue not only in South Africa but globally.

Speaking in Cape Town, Mr Magwenya said President Ramaphosa had discussed migration concerns with Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, during a meeting at Genadendal. He said both leaders agreed that South Africans are not xenophobic, despite the recent unrest.

In recent weeks, protests linked to groups such as Operation Dudula have called for stricter immigration controls, tighter visa regulations and action against businesses employing undocumented migrants. Some demonstrations have turned violent, raising concerns about the safety of foreign nationals.

Mr Magwenya acknowledged that immigration had become a “pressure point”, but stressed that protests must remain peaceful and within the law. He said law enforcement agencies were expected to prevent attacks on individuals, regardless of their nationality.

He also pointed to broader factors driving migration across Africa, including conflict, instability and governance challenges, and called for greater cooperation among African countries to address the root causes.

The comments come amid concerns raised by countries including Nigeria and Ghana over the safety of their citizens in South Africa. Nigeria has advised its nationals to exercise caution and has offered voluntary repatriation to some citizens.

South Africa’s Police Ministry has also condemned violence against foreign nationals, saying such actions are unlawful and contrary to the country’s constitutional values of dignity, equality and human rights.