Pretoria: South Africa has reiterated its commitment to the African Union's decision to convene a continent-wide conference on migration, as expressed by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). This affirmation follows the AU Executive Council's decision not to include migration in the agenda for the upcoming mid-term review meeting.

According to South African Government News Agency, this support aligns with the call made during the 25th African Union Assembly in Johannesburg in 2015 for an African migration conference. The conference aims to explore strategies for enhancing mobility and development within the continent while addressing challenges like irregular migration and managing migration flows.

The department emphasized that the conference should take a holistic view of migration, considering its links to peace, stability, economic development, regional integration, and governance. It also highlighted the importance of discussing the root causes of anti-migrant sentiment and developing a collective approach to combat violence, discrimination, xenophobia, and intolerance.

The urgency for such dialogue is underscored by research showing that nearly 60% of young Africans are considering emigration for better opportunities, with most migration occurring within the continent. This is coupled with growing negative attitudes towards migrants, fueled by economic hardships.

Although Africa has engaged in migration discussions with other regions, it has yet to hold a comprehensive forum for its own Member States to collaboratively address its unique migration challenges and opportunities. Such a conference would allow countries to share experiences, best practices, and cooperative responses.

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, stressed that attacks on migrants are contrary to democratic values and constitutional promises. The South African Government is committed to ensuring accountability for criminal acts against migrants.

The department stated that a lasting solution to migration pressures requires honest dialogue about the factors influencing migration and the responsibilities of all states. South Africa remains dedicated to Pan-Africanism and solidarity, with the continent's concerns central to its foreign policy.

This commitment is evident in South Africa's efforts to promote peace, economic integration, pandemic preparedness, and a fair response to Africa's debt challenges. The department affirmed that this path will continue to guide South Africa's actions.