Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) has stated that recent incidents of individuals being targeted based on their perceived immigration status are unacceptable and dangerous. The organization warned that communities attempting to address immigration concerns independently could result in violence, damage to property, and economic disruption. BUSA specifically noted that such actions could lead to a significant loss of livelihoods across affected communities. These developments coincide with Ghana initiating a voluntary repatriation program for its citizens in South Africa, with the first flight departing Johannesburg on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, carrying approximately 300 Ghanaian nationals.
The repatriation efforts follow renewed demonstrations in South Africa concerning illegal immigration. These demonstrations have brought to the forefront underlying societal frustrations regarding various issues. South African authorities have condemned acts of violence against foreign nationals, while also acknowledging public concerns regarding undocumented immigration and the pressures it places on resources and services.
Business Concerns Over Lawlessness
Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) has expressed significant concern that current tensions could extend into workplaces, as businesses face increasing scrutiny over their hiring practices. This scrutiny places additional pressure on companies already navigating a complex economic landscape. Khulekani Mathe, CEO of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), stated that BUSA stands ready to collaborate with the government, drawing parallels to the cooperation observed during the power crisis. This willingness to partner shows the severity with which the business community views the current situation. The organization also warned that hostility directed towards foreign nationals carries broader implications for South African companies, truck drivers, and investors operating across the African continent. This potential for wider repercussions emphasizes the interconnectedness of South Africa's economy with its regional partners. BUSA emphasized that South Africa’s extensive economic ties with the continent necessitate a rapid normalization of the situation, noting that prolonged instability could severely damage these key relationships.
Frustrations regarding unemployment, crime, and access to services have contributed significantly to the escalating tensions within South Africa. These domestic issues are seen as fueling the anti-foreigner sentiment, creating a volatile environment where communities may feel compelled to take matters into their own hands. The situation has drawn international attention, with Nigeria voicing disapproval of the treatment of its citizens in South Africa. Nigeria is reportedly considering evacuation measures for its nationals amidst the growing concerns, a move that would further show the international community's alarm. Business leaders fear that if unchecked, the current climate could damage South Africa's reputation and economic partnerships across Africa, potentially leading to a decline in foreign investment and trade. The organization continues to advocate for a rule-of-law approach to prevent further destabilization, asserting that only a structured and legal response can effectively manage the crisis.
Root Causes and State Capacity
South Africa’s challenges with migration have been compounded by porous borders and limited state capacity, according to Khulekani Mathe, CEO of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), who joined CNBC Africa for a discussion on the issue. Mathe stated, "I think it’s fair to say that managing migration is really a difficult issue. In our case, it’s been exacerbated by what is often referred to as our porous borders, which means that the government cannot account for who is here, who is here legally, who is not here legally." He emphasized BUSA's concern, noting, "What we’re seeing on the streets of South Africa is not something that we would like to see." The organization urged calm, with Mathe stating, "add our voice to the calls for calm." This call for calm is a direct response to the increasing instances of communities taking law enforcement into their own hands, a trend BUSA views as highly dangerous.
Mathe noted the dangers of unrest, asserting, "Having these kinds of tensions play out is not good. It endangers lives, it endangers properties, it endangers livelihoods." He showed the importance of legal processes, saying, "Whatever is done, it needs to be done in the context of the law." BUSA stressed that societies elect governments precisely "so that we do not have to take matters into our own hands as societies, because things can go wrong when we do that." This statement reinforces the principle that the state is the primary enforcer of law and order, and that a breakdown in this function can lead to chaos. The CEO of BUSA further called on the government to take charge and ensure that all actions concerning immigration occur within the rule of law, thereby restoring public confidence in state institutions.
The business community has offered its support to the government in addressing these issues. "We have indeed, as business, extended a hand on many issues to work with government in partnership to try and resolve our difficulties," Mathe explained, adding, "In the statement that we released, we also say that we are ready to work with government on these issues." This offer of collaboration extends to finding sustainable solutions for migration management. The CEO also pointed out the necessity of cross-border movement for economic activity, stating, "The nature of business, the nature of trade does mean that there needs to be movement of people across border." This notes the practical implications of restricting movement, which could severely impact trade and investment. This discussion took place on Friday, June 05, 2026, at 11:13:13 GMT, providing a timely perspective on the unfolding situation. Some individuals who have been repatriated had previously been held at the Lindela Repatriation Centre for immigration-related matters, indicating a pre-existing connection to immigration enforcement.
International Reactions and Repatriation
Ghana recently summoned South Africa's ambassador regarding reported attacks on Ghanaian nationals, signaling international concern over the escalating tensions. This diplomatic action followed reports from citizens experiencing difficulties and perceived threats in South Africa. The summoning of an ambassador is a significant diplomatic step, indicating the seriousness with which Ghana views the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
In response to the situation, more than 800 Ghanaian citizens had registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for evacuation by the time of the first repatriation flight. This substantial number reflects the widespread fear and uncertainty among the Ghanaian community in South Africa. This registration process facilitated the voluntary return of individuals who felt unsafe or were facing challenges due to the unrest, demonstrating a proactive measure by the Ghanaian government to protect its nationals. Many of those repatriated had previously been held at the Lindela Repatriation Centre, indicating that some of the individuals returning to Ghana had been involved in immigration-related matters prior to the recent tensions. This detail suggests that the repatriation program is assisting both those directly affected by recent unrest and those facing pre-existing immigration challenges.
A second flight to Ghana is expected to depart on Sunday, continuing the repatriation efforts initiated by the Ghanaian government. This ongoing process shows the significant number of Ghanaians seeking to return home amidst the current climate in South Africa and the commitment of their government to assist them. The continued organization of flights notes the sustained demand for repatriation and the urgency of the situation. These repatriation efforts highlight the broader international implications of the ongoing immigration debate and associated incidents in South Africa, drawing attention from various African nations and potentially impacting regional relations.
Call for Partnership and Order
Khulekani Mathe, CEO of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), reiterated his call on the government to ensure all actions concerning immigration occur within the rule of law. Mathe stated, "Whatever is done, it needs to be done in the context of the law," emphasizing that adherence to legal frameworks is critical for a stable society. He further stressed, "We elect governments so that we do not have to take matters into our own hands as societies, because things can go wrong when we do that." This statement serves as a potent reminder of the social contract between citizens and the state. He added, "Having these kinds of tensions play out is not good. It endangers lives, it endangers properties, it endangers livelihoods," showing the severe human and economic costs of unchecked public unrest. BUSA has extended an offer to partner with the government to resolve these difficulties, signaling the business sector's commitment to finding constructive and lawful solutions to the complex challenges posed by immigration and social tensions.
