By Ngazibini Siyephu
Migration has become an increasing discussion all over the world as many in the world fall on hard times and have to flee their home countries, but often they end up in places where locals are themselves trying to grapple with various challenges with joblessness and financial strife right at the top.
Recently, those who participated in Durban’s March in March said they are against the huge number of undocumented immigrants living in South Africa. The march was led by Vuma FM presenter, Jacinta Ngobese.
“South Africa was celebrating Human Rights Day just a few days ago, however, the rights of South Africans are not prioritised. I have written to the Human Rights Commission many times, without a response. It is time that we start questioning them the purpose and roles of these organisations.” further said Ngobese.
Members of political parties that include UMkhonto Wesizwe (MK), Action SA and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) were visible as the group walked from King Dinizulu Park to the Durban City Hall where a memorandum of grievances was submitted.
“This memorandum serves to express our deep concern and dismay occasioned by the high volume of illegal immigrants in South Africa and the significant negative impact it has on the skyrocketing levels of unemployment, safety, security, and socio-economic well-being of our communities. The influx of undocumented immigrants has led to serious challenges such as an increase in identity theft, fraud, human trafficking, illicit drug trade, murder, extortion, and various crimes of organised criminal activities,” read a section of the memorandum.
The PA’s election campaign line leading up to the 2024 national election was, “Abahambe”. It means that they must go in isiZulu. This was reiterated by the political formation at the march. “They are taking over our country. Abahambe – they must go. We do not want them here. They take our jobs. Their children get places at schools and now our South African children have to stay at home,” said the PA’s Teressa Nortje
Despite the unemployment rate sitting at about 34 % in South Africa which is the highest of all G20 countries, South Africa has the biggest economy in Africa, the highest number of dollar millionaires in Africa and is a stable democracy. It then becomes a very attractive destination for many people from the rest of Africa and elsewhere in the global south.
March organisers say they still want tourists to visit South Africa. “We are not fighting against people and visitors; we are fighting against criminals,” said Ngobese.
They say that the Department of Home Affairs and the eThekwini Municipalit were invited, but didn’t honour the invitation.
