South Africa's R292 million spent on repatriation of foreign nationals amid migration tensions

South Africa has allocated R292 million to repatriate foreign nationals as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa's five-point plan to address illegal migration. The Home Affairs Department has sought reimbursement from Malawi, Nigeria, and Ethiopia for the costs incurred. Tommy Makhode, the Home Affairs Director-General, informed the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs that the department had written to the respective governments and embassies to request reimbursement.

The expenditure followed a significant rise in migration tensions, prompted by President Ramaphosa's announcement of the five-point plan on June 7. The plan aims to enforce immigration laws, secure borders, strengthen the immigration system, close gaps in migration laws, and collaborate with other African countries. The government's response to the migration crisis has been met with anti-immigration protests, leading to some foreign nationals leaving areas where they faced safety concerns.

The Temporary Repatriation Processing Centre in Musina, Limpopo, was set up to manage the growing numbers, with a capacity of 20,000 people, although its occupancy peaked at approximately 1,005. By August 6, Home Affairs had processed 82,875 people through repatriation and deportation processes. The main expense was transport, with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure spending R48 million to establish and operate the temporary repatriation centre.