Protests targeting foreigners are increasing. President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country needs to tackle illegal migration.
As anti-foreigner protests have spread across the country in recent days, with flare-ups in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised a tough government response to migration issues, cautioning against xenophobia and vigilantism.
According to reports, on Tuesday, June 2, protesters in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng targeted the homes of foreigners in Cloverdine and Chief Albert Luthuli. news24. In Ladysmith, KZN, hundreds of protesters marched Walked through the streets and visited shops and called on the government to take action against illegal migration.
Speaking during the presidency budget vote in parliament on Tuesday, Ramaphosa outlined the government's plans to strengthen immigration enforcement.
“As we work to build a safer, more stable and more prosperous society, we need to address the challenge of migration. When well managed and regulated, migration can help drive growth and increase opportunities for South Africans.
Ramaphosa said, “However, we need to tackle illegal migration. We have seen how illegal immigration can put pressure on our public services and undermine our efforts to deliver decent work.”
xenophobic unrest
Anti-immigrant violence erupted in the Western Cape on June 2, 2026, leading to mass displacement. The president's comments came as surveys showed anti-foreign sentiment continues to rise. In that…