South Africa: Undocumented migrants face looming deadline amid rising xenophobia
via The Namibian8 min read
Undocumented migrants in South Africa are facing a deadline to leave the country, set by anti-migrant groups, amidst growing hostility and fear. Esnat Joseph, a 36-year-old Malawian woman, described how armed men attacked her husband and forced her from her home in Durban, leading her to seek refuge in an open field with thousands of other foreigners. This intimidation follows protests by groups like March and March and ActionSA, who have set June 30 as the departure deadline for undocumented migrants. President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned against "scapegoating of vulnerable people" as a solution to economic challenges. Many migrants, including Joseph, are seeking repatriation, with Malawi, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe organizing returns for their citizens. Protest organizers deny xenophobia, citing concerns about law-breaking and the strain on public services due to high unemployment and economic inequality. However, human rights lawyers and others fear these protests could escalate into violence, reminiscent of past xenophobic outbreaks. The government has outlined a five-point strategy to address the crisis, including refusing asylum from "safe" countries and penalizing employers of undocumented migrants. Political parties are also accused of using misinformation to fuel anti-migrant sentiment ahead of upcoming local government elections. Despite government efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, many migrants, even those with legal status, report feeling
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
The Walvis Bay Corridor Group WBCG is calling on transport and logistics operators to utilize the pre-clearance system to prevent truck congestion at borders. This appeal follows recent delays and long queues at the Katima Mulilo border post, which have increased cargo transit times and demurrage charges, consequently raising operational costs. WBCG spokesperson Obrien Simasiku noted that a reluctance by some operators to use pre-clearing is a key cause of the congestion, leading to extensive document processing at the border. WBCG acting chief executive Edward Shivute acknowledged that while pre-clearance is crucial, other issues with supporting border agencies also contribute to the problem. He encouraged stakeholders to enhance coordination and streamline processes to improve efficiency and remove non-tariff barriers. Shivute highlighted that implementing One-Stop Border Posts and the 24-hour operations at Katima Mulilo are sustainable solutions. Addressing these challenges is vital to maintain the competitiveness and efficiency of the Walvis Bay—Ndola—Lubumbashi Development Corridor, a strategic trade route, and to support regional economic growth.
Mexico became the first team to reach the World Cup knockout round after a 1-0 victory over South Korea. A goal from Luis Romo secured Mexico's top spot in Group A with a game remaining. South Korea is currently second with three points, while the Czech Republic and South Africa each have one point. In other matches, Canada achieved their first-ever World Cup victory, defeating Qatar 6-0 in Group B. This win puts Canada on the brink of advancing to the last 32, needing only a point against Switzerland to finish first in their group. The Canadian victory was marked by a serious left leg injury to midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off after a challenge that resulted in a red card for Qatar's Assim Madibo. Canada coach Jesse Marsch stated that Kone was being treated in hospital for a suspected broken leg. Earlier, Switzerland defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1, reigniting their campaign in Group B. Johan Manzambi scored twice for Switzerland. South Africa also kept their qualification hopes alive with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, with Teboho Mokoena scoring a penalty for South Africa.
Switzerland secured a 4-1 victory over 10-man Bosnia-Herzegovina in Los Angeles. Substitutes Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas were instrumental, with Manzambi scoring first from a Vargas cross. Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic was sent off for a tackle on Breel Embolo. Manzambi then created a goal for Vargas, and Vargas assisted another for Manzambi. Ermin Mamhic scored a consolation goal for Bosnia, but Granit Xhaka sealed the win with a penalty in stoppage time. This result places Switzerland at the top of Group B with four points. Early in the match, veteran midfielders Xhaka and Remo Freuler orchestrated attacks for Switzerland, while Edin Dzeko created Bosnia's first major chance. Nikola Vasilj saved a bicycle kick from Dan Ndoye. The game saw a shift after coach Murat Yakin made three substitutions in the 72nd minute, leading to the late surge of goals.