South African officials have processed 53,449 foreign nationals for deportation and repatriation as of July 11 [1].
The move signals an aggressive ramp-up by the government to manage irregular migration and enforce immigration laws within the country [2]. This effort is led by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration to address the presence of illegal foreign nationals [3].
Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Kubayi announced the figures during a media briefing held in Pretoria on July 12 [3]. He said that the processing of these individuals is part of a broader strategy to ensure that those without legal residency are returned to their home countries [3].
"To date a total of 53 449 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation and repatriation which is dominated by the ..." Kubayi said [1].
According to government data, Malawian nationals make up the largest portion of those processed, accounting for at least 80 percent of the total [3]. The government continues to target various nationalities to curb illegal immigration across its borders [2].
Officials said that the processing involves both deportation for those who violated immigration laws, and repatriation for those returning voluntarily [1]. This surge in activity reflects the government's current priority to tighten border controls and internal residency requirements [2].
“53,449 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation and repatriation”
The high percentage of Malawian nationals among the deportees suggests a specific focus on one of South Africa's primary migration corridors. By publicizing these numbers through the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, the government is signaling a shift toward stricter enforcement of residency laws to deter irregular migration.
