President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured Kenyan President William Ruto that South Africans are not xenophobic, despite growing public debate around immigration and illegal migration.
Ramaphosa made the remarks during Ruto’s state visit to South Africa on Thursday, where the two leaders met at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to strengthen economic cooperation and bilateral relations between their countries.
The issue of migration featured prominently during discussions, amid recent demonstrations in several parts of South Africa calling for stricter action against illegal immigration.
South Africa and Kenya have sought to deepen relations in recent years. In 2022, South Africa introduced visa-free travel for Kenyan citizens holding ordinary passports, allowing visits of up to 90 days per calendar year. The move was intended to boost tourism, trade and investment while promoting regulated migration between the two nations.
Addressing concerns around immigration, Ramaphosa stressed that South Africans are not opposed to foreign nationals and remain committed to peaceful coexistence across the continent.
“South Africans are not xenophobic. South Africans are Africans, and they want to live with other Africans peacefully. Our people are calling on us as leaders to resolve the many challenges that are brought to bear by migration,” said Ramaphosa.
While acknowledging concerns about illegal migration, Ramaphosa and members of his Cabinet reiterated South Africa’s commitment to lawful migration, regional cooperation and collaborative efforts to address migration-related challenges facing African countries.
The state visit also focused on expanding trade and investment opportunities, with both countries seeking to strengthen economic ties and advance regional integration.