The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation (AKF) has joined a growing number of organisations calling for calm, as tensions around migration and undocumented immigration continue to rise in South Africa.

In a statement, released on June 12, the foundation welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent address on migration, saying it was encouraged by government’s plans to strengthen border security, speed up the deportation of undocumented migrants, improve enforcement of labour laws, and tackle corruption within the immigration system. The foundation said major labour federations, including Cosatu, Fedusa, and Saftu, as well as business groups, faith-based organisations, and several political parties, have broadly supported the government’s approach. “The current consensus provides a unique window of opportunity to address these issues systematically,” the foundation said, adding that years of weak enforcement had contributed to the exploitation of workers and growing frustration within communities.

The comments come ahead of a planned national shutdown on June 30, which is being promoted by groups calling for tougher action against undocumented immigrants. However, government and several civil society organisations have warned that such actions could increase tensions and fuel xenophobia.

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In recent weeks, anti-immigration demonstrations have taken place in different parts of the country, prompting Ramaphosa’s announcement of government’s comprehensive migration management plan. The plan includes stronger border controls, more workplace inspections, faster deportation processes, and action against employers who break immigration and labour laws. Government has also stressed that only law enforcement authorities are responsible for enforcing immigration laws.

Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic violence and warned against vigilantism, saying migration concerns must be addressed through legal and constitutional processes.

The foundation said agencies such as the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Border Management Authority (BMA) must ensure public order is maintained, while preventing acts of vigilantism and protecting critical infrastructure. It also criticised calls for a national shutdown, warning that such actions could lead to instability and unfairly target foreign nationals. “With major labour, business, faith, and civil society formations now in agreement on the path forward, there is a powerful opportunity for collective leadership.”

The organisation called on government to urgently deploy labour inspectors to crack down on employers who exploit undocumented workers. It also urged political parties not to use migration as a political tool.

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Ramaphosa has meanwhile cautioned against blaming migrants for South Africa’s broader challenges, including unemployment and poor service delivery, saying practical solutions are needed to address these problems.

As June 30 approaches, authorities, businesses, and community organisations will be monitoring developments closely, to see whether the planned shutdown gains support or whether government’s new interventions help ease tensions.

The foundation has urged South Africans to address their concerns through lawful and constructive means, saying lasting solutions can only be achieved while respecting human dignity, public safety, and the constitution.

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