Tshwane: President Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenyan President William Ruto have urged for a coordinated African response to address migration challenges, emphasizing that these issues can be managed through economic development, job creation, and bolstering continental institutions.
According to South African Government News Agency, migration was a focal point during the leaders' opening remarks at the State Visit hosted by President Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings. Both Presidents highlighted that migration pressures facing South Africa and other African countries are due to uneven economic development across the continent and require a collective approach rather than isolated national strategies.
President Ramaphosa noted that migration was a significant topic in his discussions with President Ruto. He emphasized that South Africans are not opposed to fellow Africans but are concerned about the challenges associated with migration flows. The President stated that South Africa is actively addressing migration-related challenges and appreciated President Ruto's understanding of the issue, stressing the importance of African countries working together to find lasting solutions.
President Ruto supported President Ramaphosa's views, linking migration to the availability of opportunities across the continent. He acknowledged South Africa's position as a more developed economy, making it a destination for those seeking jobs and services. Ruto argued that the long-term solution is to ensure economic opportunities are more evenly distributed across African countries.
The Kenyan leader also tied the migration debate to efforts to reform the African Union (AU), suggesting that stronger continental institutions would enable African countries to better coordinate development efforts and present a unified voice on global issues. As the African Union Champion for Institutional Reform, President Ruto stressed that a more effective AU could help create conditions that reduce migration pressures.
The migration discussion was part of broader bilateral talks aimed at strengthening relations between South Africa and Kenya, two of Africa's most influential economies. Both countries have signed agreements covering various sectors, and the State Visit included discussions on economic cooperation, regional peace and security, continental integration, and investment. The leaders are also set to engage with business leaders at the South Africa-Kenya Business Forum to expand trade and investment opportunities.
Both President Ramaphosa and President Ruto suggested that deeper economic integration, stronger institutions, and increased development across the continent are essential to addressing the root causes of migration while advancing Africa's agenda for growth and prosperity.