MBABANE – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation on Sunday evening
This comes in the wake of escalating tensions over illegal migration and a surge in protests targeting foreign nationals, developments that are being closely watched in Eswatini due to the large number of emaSwati living and working across the border.
According to a media advisory issued by the Presidency of South Africa, Ramaphosa will outline government’s management approach to illegal migration and respond to growing anti-foreigner demonstrations that have spread across several provinces in recent weeks.
The address comes against the backdrop of mounting pressure on the South African government to act on immigration concerns while simultaneously curbing incidents of xenophobic violence.
Ramaphosa has repeatedly stated that while illegal migration must be addressed, vigilantism, violence and xenophobia will not be tolerated. He has called for stronger border management, improved immigration controls and adherence to the rule of law.
Cabinet recently approved a comprehensive migration action plan which the President is expected to elaborate on during the national address.
The plan was developed by an inter-ministerial committee in response to growing public concerns over undocumented migration and increasing anti-immigrant protests.
For Eswatini, the developments carry particular significance. Thousands of emaSwati live, work, study and conduct business in South Africa, making the neighbouring country one of the Kingdom’s most important economic partners. While the recent protests have largely focused on undocumented migrants, reports indicate that fear and uncertainty have spread among many foreign nationals regardless of their legal status.
Recent violence has already had regional implications. Mozambique reported that five of its nationals died during anti-immigrant attacks in South Africa, while hundreds of migrants from neighbouring countries have returned home amid safety concerns. Several foreign nationals have reportedly sought shelter in community halls and temporary safe spaces after fleeing threats and attacks.
The South African government has acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. Ramaphosa recently announced plans to dispatch envoys to African countries to explain South Africa’s position and help ease diplomatic tensions arising from xenophobic incidents.
He has maintained that South Africans are not inherently xenophobic and that migration challenges must be resolved through lawful and coordinated government interventions.
Political analysts believe Sunday’s address will be closely scrutinised across the Southern African region, including Eswatini, as governments, businesses and migrant communities seek clarity on Pretoria’s strategy for managing migration while protecting the rights and safety of foreign nationals.
The address is scheduled for 6pm at the Union Buildings in Pretoria and will be broadcast live by the South African Broadcasting Corporation and digital platforms operated by the Presidency.
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