Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tightening immigration control and restoring order at South Africa’s ports of entry and workplaces, in line with SONA commitments. Measures include stronger border enforcement to curb illegal immigration, illicit trade, and fraud, as well as the introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to modernise and secure the movement of people. Deportations have reportedly increased by 46%, with around 500,000 people deported since April 2023 under the Border Management Authority. Major land ports such as Lebombo, Beitbridge, Oshoek, Kopfontein, Maseru Bridge, and Ficksburg are also set for redevelopment through public-private partnerships to improve efficiency and security.
In addition, government is expanding enforcement capacity by hiring 10,000 new permanent labour inspectors to strengthen compliance with labour laws and combat workplace exploitation, supporting the current workforce of about 2,300 inspectors. Authorities have urged the public to report immigration-related crimes to law enforcement rather than taking the law into their own hands. Government says these reforms aim to protect national sovereignty, ensure safety and rule of law, and support economic growth while maintaining social cohesion and constructive international relations.
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