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EZEKIEL PHALANA
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has called on African leaders and parliamentarians to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold human dignity, and work collectively to address the root causes of migration across the continent.
Speaking at the 2026 Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Africa Region in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, Minister Lamola welcomed delegates on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to democracy, Pan-African solidarity and regional cooperation.
Addressing delegates gathered at the historic venue that hosted South Africa’s Multiparty Negotiating Process, Minister Lamola reflected on the significance of the location, the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, and the approach of World Refugee Day on 20 June. He noted that these historical and contemporary milestones provide an important opportunity to reflect on the relationship between democracy, development and migration in Africa.
“This venue reminds us that even the deepest divisions can be overcome through dialogue, compromise and a shared commitment to justice,” Minister Lamola said.
He paid tribute to the role played by African countries in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, highlighting the solidarity shown by nations across the continent that provided refuge and support to generations of South Africans during apartheid.
Turning to the issue of migration, Minister Lamola observed that migration remains one of the defining realities of the 21st century. He noted that while more than 45 million Africans live outside their countries of birth, the majority remain within Africa, challenging common perceptions about migration from the continent.
The Minister emphasised that economic opportunity remains the primary driver of migration, particularly among Africa’s youth. He stressed that many young Africans seek opportunities elsewhere because of limited prospects, unemployment and underdevelopment in their countries of origin.
At the same time, Minister Lamola expressed concern about the growing rise of anti-migrant sentiment globally and within Africa. He warned that migrants and refugees are increasingly being used as scapegoats for deeper economic and social challenges confronting societies around the world.
“There is no excuse for violence against foreign nationals in our society,” he said. “Violence directed at migrants and refugees is a blight on our democracy and a betrayal of our Constitution’s promise of dignity, equality and fundamental human rights for all.”
The Minister reiterated that the South African Government strongly condemns violence, intimidation and vigilantism directed at migrants and refugees. He emphasised that the enforcement of immigration laws remains the sole responsibility of the state and that no individual or organisation has the authority to take the law into their own hands.
Minister Lamola also cautioned against the spread of misinformation and unverified reports relating to migration and public protests. He underscored the importance of relying on verified information and called for stronger efforts to combat disinformation through effective communication, fact-checking and early warning systems.
While reaffirming South Africa’s humanitarian and constitutional obligations, the Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by irregular migration and stressed the need for lawful, orderly and humane migration management. He noted that government is strengthening border management, improving immigration systems, enhancing labour inspections and tackling corruption to ensure compliance with both labour and immigration laws.
He further highlighted the exploitation of undocumented migrant workers by some employers, warning that those who violate labour standards and immigration laws will face serious consequences.
Minister Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s enduring commitment to Pan-Africanism, recalling the country’s efforts since 1994 to protect the rights of migrants and refugees, dismantle discriminatory migration policies and strengthen regional integration.
He called on African countries to work together to address the underlying drivers of migration by promoting peace, expanding economic opportunities, creating jobs for young people and building productive economies capable of delivering prosperity for all.
“The future of Africa depends on our ability to create opportunities for our youth, deepen regional integration and ensure that migration is managed in a manner that respects human dignity while advancing development and stability,” he said.
Concluding his address, Minister Lamola urged delegates to use the conference as an opportunity to confront difficult challenges, bridge differences and develop practical solutions that strengthen democracy and improve the lives of citizens across the continent.
The Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Africa Region continues over the coming days, bringing together parliamentary leaders from across the continent to deliberate on governance, democracy and Africa’s development priorities.