Speaking to Channel Africa on Monday night, on the situation facing thousands of migrants who have fled homes and businesses amid threats, intimidation and violence, Dr Rachel Walker said the reality on the ground differs significantly from perceptions that the repatriation process is orderly and well managed.
According to Walker, many migrants have been forced to leave communities out of fear, with some displaced people now relying on humanitarian organisations and civil society groups for basic assistance.
Walker said families, including mothers with young children, are living in difficult conditions while awaiting transport to neighbouring countries. “We are seeing mass displacement. People are running in fear, being chased from homes and businesses, and relying on support from civil society because government assistance has been inadequate,” said Walker.
The comments come as authorities continue processing large numbers of undocumented foreign nationals at repatriation centres, particularly in Musina, Limpopo.
Walker argued that while rapid removals are not necessarily unlawful, problems arise when the pace of operations exceeds the state’s ability to provide adequate shelter, food, water, sanitation and healthcare.
According to Walker, safeguards should include medical screening, continuity of treatment for people with chronic illnesses and independent monitoring of both physical and mental health conditions.
Walker raised concerns that vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and individuals with chronic conditions, may be undertaking long journeys without proper access to healthcare.
Walker also highlighted reports of deaths and medical complications linked to displacement and interrupted treatment.
Addressing broader concerns around immigration, Walker said the debate should distinguish between undocumented migration and the actions of vigilante groups targeting foreign nationals.
Walker criticised incidents in which community groups allegedly demanded identification documents, blocked access to services and intimidated migrants, arguing that such actions fall outside the law.
The discussion also touched on public concerns that migration places pressure on healthcare, housing and employment opportunities.
Walker argued that available data does not support claims that migration is the primary driver of these challenges. According to Walker, foreign-born migrants account for less than 5% of South Africa’s population, while internal migration within the country remains significantly higher.
Instead, Walker pointed to governance failures, corruption and administrative inefficiencies as major contributors to social and economic pressures.
Examples cited included challenges within the healthcare system and ongoing problems at the Department of Home Affairs, where delays and administrative obstacles can leave migrants without valid documentation despite having entered the country legally.
Walker further argued that undocumented status is often the result of bureaucratic failures rather than deliberate non-compliance.
While acknowledging public frustration over unemployment and pressure on public services, Walker said long-term solutions require addressing structural economic challenges rather than blaming migrants.
According to Walker, migration has historically played an important role in SA’s economy and society, with migrants contributing to entrepreneurship, job creation and economic activity.
Walker concluded that policy solutions should be informed by reliable data and evidence rather than public perceptions, warning that failure to address the root causes of poverty, inequality and unemployment risks deepening social tensions without resolving underlying problems.
–ChannelAfrica–
