President Ramaphosa addresses ill-treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa
President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that South Africans are ashamed of the ill-treatment of foreign nationals, particularly those from the diaspora, during a Southern African Development Community SADC public lecture in eThekwini. He emphasized that the criminal actions of a few repudiate the solidarity upon which Southern Africa is built, and that integration should be practiced, not exclusion. Ramaphosa highlighted that Southern Africa's diversity and richness are products of historic migrations, with people across the region speaking similar languages, indicating a shared heritage. He urged SADC to develop policies promoting integration and legal migration, working towards a Vision 2050 where people can move freely according to established principles. Meanwhile, the ANC welcomed the Border Management Authority's BMA efforts in deporting illegal immigrants, with over 89,000 processed since June 7, 2026. The ANC's communications manager, Mangaliso Khonza, stated that effective border management requires cooperation with neighboring states and the broader SADC region, affirming South Africa's commitment to African solidarity while upholding sovereign responsibility for border management.