PRESS STATEMENT – AL JAMA-AH
For Immediate Release
In Support of Rejecting the Scapegoating of Poor African Migrants
Al Jama-ah has come out strongly in support of the President of the EFF in rejecting the false narrative that blames poor African migrants for South Africa’s socio-economic challenges.
Al Jama-ah notes with concern the growing tendency within our national discourse to attribute unemployment and the deterioration of public services to poor African migrants. This narrative is both misleading and harmful, as it diverts attention away from the real structural and governance challenges facing the country.
Furthermore, Al Jama-ah recognises that many migrants who have obtained permanent residency or citizenship are contributing meaningfully to the economy. The party will actively engage these communities to expand their positive impact by creating more jobs, opening pathways for youth employment, establishing manufacturing opportunities, and scaling up enterprises that are already generating employment.
Al Jama-ah has also consistently engaged the Department of Home Affairs on the urgent need to address ongoing migration challenges. These include the estimated million or more undocumented migrants in the country, as well as significant delays in processing nearly 200,000 outstanding appeals. These administrative backlogs require urgent attention to ensure a fair, efficient, and lawful immigration system.
Rejecting False Narratives
It is clear that unemployment in South Africa is driven by deep structural economic challenges, while failures in public services stem from governance, capacity, and policy weaknesses. Inequality remains rooted in historical injustice and uneven economic ownership. Migrants did not create these systemic issues, nor are they responsible for the continued exclusion of millions from economic participation.
A Call for Justice and Compassion
As a party grounded in justice, human dignity, and social cohesion, Al Jama-ah rejects the targeting of vulnerable communities. We are deeply concerned about the rise of Afrophobia, which threatens stability, fuels violence and discrimination, and divides African communities who share common struggles and aspirations.
Addressing the Real Issues
South Africa faces urgent challenges, including high unemployment, especially among the youth, overstretched public services, and extreme inequality. These require ethical leadership, meaningful economic reform, effective job creation strategies, and strengthened institutions. Blaming migrants does not solve these problems and only delays the real work required.
Our Position on Migration
Al Jama-ah maintains that immigration must be managed in a lawful and humane manner, while ensuring that all people within our borders are treated with dignity and respect. Pan-African solidarity remains a guiding principle, and the solution lies in strengthening systems rather than targeting individuals.
Call to Unity
We call on all South Africans to reject divisive narratives based on nationality or origin and to promote social cohesion and peaceful coexistence. It is essential to hold leadership accountable and focus on building a just and inclusive economy for all.
Conclusion
South Africa’s future depends on unity, justice, and honest engagement with the root causes of our challenges. Blaming poor African migrants is unjust and distracts from the urgent task of rebuilding the economy and strengthening institutions. Al Jama-ah remains committed to advancing truth, compassion, and inclusive growth.
Issued by Asghar Khan on behalf of All Jama-ah
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