Secure border needed to curb illegal migration - Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa says a more secure border will help curb illegal immigration, as well as human trafficking and cross-border crime.
Ramaphosa was speaking at the launch of the Border Management Authority in Musina on Thursday.
The BMA, which began work in April, brings together various government departments under one central command with the aim of protecting the country's borders.
It has already promised to bring down the number of illegal immigrants entering the country within the next 12 months.
"A more secure border is important for curbing illegal migration, human smuggling and trafficking. It will help in combating cross-border crime,” Ramaphosa said.
"The Border Management Authority is tasked to ensure that the country’s immigration laws and regulations are upheld and enforced. The BMA was established in response to a number of serious challenges."
"One of these challenges is the increase in the number of undocumented foreign nationals entering our country. This has exacerbated many of the country’s social and economic problems."
Ramaphosa also met with his Zimbabwean counterpart Emmerson Mnangagwa at the Beitbridge border post, the country's busiest land port of entry.
"Earlier today, I visited the Beit Bridge Border Post with President Mnangagwa, and we agreed that the establishment of the Border Management Authority will be an important tool for the development of the region,” the president said.
"It will form part of integrating border management activities in the SADC region as we implement the African Continental Free Trade Area."
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