South Africa has declared a tougher war on illegal immigration, with President Cyril Ramaphosa promising stricter border controls and stronger law enforcement while warning angry citizens not to target foreign nationals through violence.

In a nationally televised address on Sunday, Ramaphosa unveiled sweeping immigration measures as tensions over jobs, business opportunities and public services continue to fuel anti-foreigner sentiment across the country.

“We will and must not allow groups to use the legitimate concerns of South Africans to destabilize our country,” he said.

Ramaphosa stated that anti-foreigner sentiment frequently included tribal and ethnic insults targeting South Africans and he condemned such conduct as unacceptable.

Ramaphosa warned businesses hiring undocumented workers that they were breaking the law and undermining labour standards, fair competition, and opportunities for South Africans.

He also said that only authorized government officials may act against violations of the law, including violations of immigration laws.

Ramaphosa acknowledged growing anger in communities over the number of foreign nationals operating spaza shops and informal businesses.

“These concerns cannot and must not be dismissed, many South Africans feel excluded from economic opportunities in their own communities.” he said.

Ramaphosa said his Cabinet had approved a comprehensive plan to overhaul migration management with the clear objective that everyone entering South Africa should do so lawfully.