Ramaphosa rejects xenophobia claims amid migration protests
Ramaphosa tells Kenya's Ruto that protests against illegal immigration do not reflect xenophobia among South Africans.
Black News 
President Cyril Ramaphosa has told Kenyan President William Ruto that recent protests against illegal immigration do not mean South Africans are xenophobic.
President William Ruto is on a three-day state visit to South Africa.
During the visit, South Africa and Kenya will sign four bilateral agreements to strengthen relations and boost tourism between the two countries.
Speaking during the official welcome ceremony, Ramaphosa said South Africans were not hostile towards other Africans.
“South Africans are not xenophobic. South Africans are Africans,” he said.
He added that South Africans wanted to live peacefully with people from across the continent but expected leaders to address challenges linked to migration.
Government addressing migration concerns
Ramaphosa said the South African government was actively dealing with migration-related issues.
“As South Africa, we are addressing this matter and I was rather pleased that you had a good understanding of this issue as well,” he said.
He said South Africa and Kenya could work together to build a peaceful, integrated and prosperous continent capable of resolving its own challenges.
Ruto calls for opportunities across Africa
Ruto said migration pressures often arise because some countries offer better economic opportunities than others.
He noted that South Africa’s stronger economy attracts people seeking jobs, services and better prospects.
“The answer to this is to make sure that services and opportunities exist everywhere on our continent,” he said.
Ruto argued that a stronger and more effective African Union could help foster solidarity among African countries and reduce competition over resources and opportunities.
“I fully understand when people are competing for resources and opportunities. It is imperative for us to create opportunities everywhere on our continent,” he said.
