President Cyril Ramaphosa says the government will move refugee reception centers to border posts in a phased manner, starting with the Tshwane center this year.

“Many other countries have refugee reception centers close to the point where refugees enter the country seeking asylum or refuge,” the president said.

Addressing the nation on Sunday, President Ramaphosa said the aim of moving refugee reception centers closer to the country's borders is to ensure that asylum applications are processed more efficiently, safely and fairly.

“This will enable the government to set protection requirements at the point of entry to ensure that those who truly need protection receive assistance as quickly as possible,” he said.

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The President said a key part of the government's response to migration challenges is to strengthen the immigration system by eliminating corruption and deploying cutting-edge technology.

“We are continuing to crack down on corruption and inefficiencies at the Home Department. We must recognize that illegal immigration is often made possible by corruption.

“Officials who sell documents, facilitate illegal entry or abuse public office for personal gain betray the trust of the South African people. We will pursue these cases relentlessly.

“Those responsible face termination, criminal prosecution and the full consequences of the law,” he said.

President Ramaphosa reiterated that migration is a global reality and South Africa must be prepared to adapt to it.

“South Africa is a better country for migration. And we can become better still. But that means our laws need to be strengthened and enforced more effectively.

“This means we must end illegal immigration and tackle the social, economic and security challenges it contributes to.

“We must not allow ourselves to turn against foreign nationals or against each other. We must all respect the Constitution, uphold the basic human rights of all people and consistently uphold the law of the land.”

The President said, “We reject the notion that we must tolerate illegal immigration. We can protect our borders while protecting human dignity.”

He expressed confidence that South Africa can overcome the challenge of illegal immigration, just as it has overcome division, conflict and injustice in the past.