President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed religious leaders at a special meeting held at the Union Buildings on Wednesday. The President warned that frustration arising from economic hardship should not be permitted to fuel xenophobia or social division within South Africa. Ramaphosa concluded his address by urging collective action to build a secure, lawful, compassionate, and prosperous South Africa. The meeting brought together Ministers and faith leaders from across the country, showing the collaborative nature of the initiative.
Addressing Migration Challenges
President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that South Africa faces real and pressing concerns regarding migration and illegal immigration. He emphasized that illegal immigration is not the cause of the country’s structural problems. Ramaphosa's remarks followed his outline of a Full Approach to Migration Management, which includes stricter enforcement of immigration and labour laws, tighter border controls, anti-corruption measures, legal reforms, and increased cooperation with Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union partners. This full strategy aims to address the complexities of migration while upholding human rights.
Ramaphosa stressed that while South Africa must enforce its laws and ensure every person is lawfully present, this enforcement must align with constitutional values and human dignity. He emphasized that while South Africa must enforce its laws and ensure every person is lawfully present, this must be done in a manner consistent with constitutional values and human dignity. He stated, "I said that responsibility for enforcing our laws rests with the state, and that no individual may stop another to demand documentation or proof of nationality." He further added, "I said that no matter how frustrated people may be, there is no place for racism, sexism, xenophobia, Afrophobia or any other form of intolerance." Ramaphosa also commented, "We need to strengthen our efforts to tackle poverty and hunger."
The President described the process as a "people-led process," noting that religious leaders are "partners, participants and guarantors" in addressing these challenges. He concluded, "When fear and anger rise, it is so often the voice of the pulpit, the mosque, the temple and the synagogue that can call our people back to compassion." He added, "There are many challenges facing our nation. But we can address them together." Ramaphosa articulated his vision, saying, "Together, we can build a South Africa that is secure, lawful, compassionate and prosperous, one that upholds the dignity of every person and fulfils the promise of our democracy."
Combating Xenophobia and Division
President Cyril Ramaphosa cautioned against blaming foreign nationals for South Africa’s broader economic and social challenges. He urged faith leaders to help prevent community anger from turning into violence or discrimination. Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of maintaining constitutional values even amidst frustration. The President warned that frustration over economic hardship must not be allowed to fuel xenophobia or social division. This warning notes the critical role faith leaders can play in de-escalating tensions and promoting understanding.
He stated, "I said that no matter how frustrated people may be, there is no place for racism, sexism, xenophobia, Afrophobia or any other form of intolerance." The President called on religious institutions to play a key role in promoting empathy and unity within communities. Ramaphosa noted the unique position of faith leaders in guiding public sentiment during difficult times. He added, "When fear and anger rise, it is so often the voice of the pulpit, the mosque, the temple and the synagogue that can call our people back to compassion." This approach shows the government's recognition of religious institutions as key partners in fostering social cohesion.
Strengthening National Dialogue
President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the necessity of faster and more inclusive economic growth, increased investment, and job creation to effectively address the nation's challenges. To tackle the challenges, the President said there is a need for faster and more inclusive growth, investment, and job creation. He stated, "We need to strengthen our efforts to tackle poverty and hunger." The President's remarks were made during a meeting at the Union Buildings, which gathered Ministers and faith leaders from various parts of the country.
Ramaphosa advanced the upcoming National Dialogue initiative, characterizing it as a "people-led process" designed to unite South Africans. He outlined that this process would commence at the local level before culminating in national gatherings. He said the process would begin at local level before moving to national gatherings, ensuring broad participation from all segments of society. The President extended an invitation to religious leaders to serve as "partners, participants and guarantors" within this initiative. He acknowledged, "There are many challenges facing our nation. But we can address them together." Ramaphosa articulated his vision for the country, stating, "Together, we can build a South Africa that is secure, lawful, compassionate and prosperous, one that upholds the dignity of every person and fulfils the promise of our democracy." He concluded by urging collective action to build a secure, lawful, compassionate and prosperous South Africa.
