South African immigration launches new programme for immigrants

Despite the recent reports of racist behavior in South Africa, there are still many immigrants who are willing to study, live and work in South Africa. These immigrants are crucial to the development of the country as they can bring economic benefits by tailoring their talents and knowledge to the country’s workforce.

In order to portray South Africa as a picturesque and diverse country for people willing to start a new life abroad, the International Organization of Migration (IOM) has launched a two-year program to promote tolerance, integration and diversity in the country. The new program which is funded by the UK Department of International Development (DFID) and is implemented through the Forced Migration Study Programme (FMSP), has started with an initial assessment aimed at understanding the root cause of xenophobic behavior.
Speaking of the programme, the IOM Pretoria’s Programme Development Officer Yukiko Kumashiro, said that although there is rise in the number of immigrants in South Africa, the country is also experiencing an increase in xenophobic tendencies and attacks.
As part of the programme, the government of South Africa is plans to provide greater awareness to South African nationals, of not only the benefits of immigration but also of their rights and entitlements.
Kumashiro also said that many law enforcement, immigration, health and social officials are not fully aware of the rights and entitlements of migrants, as predetermined under the South African Constitution and Immigration Act. As a result of this lack of knowledge, migrants are commonly denied services that they are entitled to, Kumashiro added.