South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country is “deeply concerned and ashamed” over the treatment of foreign nationals. He made the remarks during a public lecture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban on Friday.

Ramaphosa’s comments come amid renewed tensions over migration and undocumented foreigners. Many South Africans have raised concerns about unemployment, public services, safety and illegal immigration. The president acknowledged these concerns while rejecting violence and intimidation against migrants.

Meanwhile, anti-immigration groups have intensified campaigns demanding stricter enforcement. March and March and Operation Dudula have featured prominently in recent protests. Some campaigns have involved confronting foreign nationals and businesses over immigration documents. There has also been reports of widespread cases of intimidation, harassment, and public disorder.

Ramaphosa has stressed that immigration laws require enforcement through authorized government institutions. “No other person is allowed” to confront someone publicly and demand proof of nationality, he said.

At the same time, the president has acknowledged the economic pressures driving public frustration. He argued that illegal immigration does not explain all of South Africa’s economic difficulties. Instead, he pointed to unemployment, weak economic growth and limited opportunities.

Ramaphosa also placed migration within Southern Africa’s longer history. He said the region’s diversity reflects centuries of movement across borders. His position calls for stronger immigration enforcement alongside respect for human dignity.

The tensions have affected migrants living and working across the country. Foreign nationals have left through voluntary repatriation programmes and government deportation processes. Several countries have come out to condemned the threats against its people and actively evacuated hundreds of citizens from the country.

South Africa now faces a difficult balance between enforcing immigration laws and preventing xenophobia. For Ramaphosa, the response must remain within the law and protect the dignity of everyone living in the country.