Ramaphosa Urges Against Xenophobia on Freedom Day 2026

During the 2026 Freedom Day celebrations in Bloemfontein, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa cautioned citizens and policymakers against allowing concerns over illegal migration to devolve into xenophobia. He acknowledged the growing public frustration regarding irregular migration and the strain it places on public services and the economy.

Ramaphosa emphasized that while it is legitimate to address concerns about illegal migration, it should not lead to hostility towards other African nations. He reminded citizens of South Africa's historical role in supporting liberation movements across Africa during apartheid, urging them to maintain a moral responsibility towards fellow Africans.

The President's remarks come amid rising public anxiety over unemployment and economic competition, linking these issues to the discourse surrounding undocumented migrants. He reiterated the government's commitment to enforcing immigration laws while managing social realities, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to migration that upholds constitutional values and human rights.