Thousands Protest Illegal Migration in South Africa

Thousands of people took part in protests across South Africa after an ultimatum demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country expired on 30 June. Despite concerns about possible unrest, the demonstrations were largely peaceful.

Activist Phakel'umthakathi had called on undocumented migrants to leave South Africa by the deadline and, together with other organizations, organized nationwide protests.

According to a government spokesperson, the demonstrations passed without major incidents, although police detained several people on suspicion of inciting hatred and harboring undocumented migrants. President Cyril Ramaphosa met protest organizers before the demonstrations and urged them to reject violence.

The ultimatum has nevertheless fueled anxiety among migrant communities. More than 25,000 people have reportedly left South Africa in recent days out of fear of attacks.

One of the protest organizers was Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma of the March and March initiative. Demonstrators accuse undocumented migrants of contributing to high unemployment, crime, and drug-related offenses, and are demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws.

Ramaphosa condemned violence against migrants and stressed that enforcing immigration laws is the responsibility of the state, not private groups. At the same time, the government has stepped up efforts to curb illegal migration. The number of deportations increased from 39,672 in the 2023/24 fiscal year to 57,784 in 2025/26.

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