South Africa and Zimbabwe are investigating the root causes of illegal migration, as tensions over foreigners in South Africa remain the subject of regional scrutiny.
Speaking at the 12th African Federation of the Institute of Internal Auditors conference in Cape Town, Public Protector Kholeka Gkaleka said the inquiry seeks to understand the socio-economic drivers of migration and identify practical solutions.
“We are currently conducting an investigation in South Africa … to find out what the root causes of illegal migration are and how we can address it,” he said.
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Together with the South African Human Rights Commission they hope to focus on producing evidence-based recommendations for the government.
Gkaleka's comments come amid renewed diplomatic tensions over South Africa's treatment of foreign nationals. Nigerian lawmakers recently called for sanctions against Pretoria, citing alleged xenophobic attacks and accusing the government of failing to take decisive action.
The controversy follows a wave of anti-immigrant protests and campaigns by groups such as Operation Dudula, which have increased pressure on undocumented immigrants and fueled broader debate about immigration policy and enforcement.
In some cases, the situation has escalated to such an extent that Nigerian authorities have considered deporting citizens, with dozens reportedly seeking to return home due to fears for their safety.
Against this backdrop, Gkaleka linked migration trends to deeper structural challenges across the continent, particularly poverty, inequality and lack of opportunity.
“Without full implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, we will continue to see African children crossing borders through dangerous rivers,” he said.
He warned that unless governments act on research findings, such interventions risk becoming futile.
“How many research papers are produced in Africa? The dust settles on them and we move on to the next topic,” he said.
Gkaleka said his office's investigation aims to avoid that outcome by ensuring that the recommendations are practical and implemented.