A border does not betray Africa

South Africa must not apologize for maintaining its immigration policies, nor should it mistake Pan-African unity for a duty to keep its borders perpetually open. The government's request for reimbursement from Malawi, Nigeria, and Ethiopia for the expenses incurred in repatriating their citizens will likely provoke diplomatic strain.

The Home Affairs Department admits to spending R292 million on this operation, which is nearly five times the initial R60 million budget. For generations, South Africa has served as Africa's economic guardian and sanctuary for those seeking refuge from hardship, instability, and conflict across the continent. It has accommodated millions of African migrants, both legally and illegally, while its own citizens face competition for employment, housing, and limited public resources.

The outrage fueling recent anti-illegal migration movements such as March and March did not emerge out of nowhere. Communities harbor legitimate concerns regarding the fluidity of borders, undocumented migration, and a government often perceived as incapable of enforcing its laws. Amidst the frustration, there remains a crucial line that should not be transgressed.

A citizen cannot act as an immigration officer, evicting foreign families, raiding businesses, or demanding identification on a whim. When protests devolve into intimidation, looting, or violence, they transform from legitimate efforts to enforce the law into acts of lawlessness. The same standard applies to migrants. Simply being African does not inherently entitle one to reside in another African nation.

Pan-Africanism embodies solidarity and shared interests; it does not necessitate the surrender of national sovereignty or immigration regulations. Consequently, South Africa should rigorously enforce its laws in a fair and humane manner, differentiating between undocumented migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, and lawful residents.

If the nation has incurred justified and substantiated costs in returning individuals to their countries of origin, seeking financial contributions from those governments is entirely reasonable. However, the government must also acknowledge its own shortcomings. Allocating R292 million against a R60 million budget necessitates scrutiny.

South Africa can continue to be Africa's guardian without metamorphosing into a borderless and lawless entity. Pan-Africanism necessitates solidarity; it also demands reciprocity, accountability, and respect for the law.