Fear, confusion and growing concern are beginning to grip many foreign nationals as the June 30 deadline issued by anti-immigration organisations for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa draws near.
Among those affected by the uncertainty is Apostle Kofi Baggar, a Ghanaian-born church leader who is now a naturalised South African citizen and has lived in Matatiele for decades.
A few days ago, Apostle Baggar convened a meeting with members of his congregation to clarify his legal status amid growing speculation and concern within the community. During the meeting, he assured congregants that he is a South African citizen but added that if circumstances ever forced him to leave the country, he would do so peacefully.
Speaking in an interview with The Informer, Apostle Baggar acknowledged that many South Africans have legitimate concerns about illegal immigration.
“I believe South Africans have genuine grievances regarding the influx of foreigners into the country. Many people are entering or remaining in the country without following the law, and that is a criminal matter,” he said.
However, Baggar believes the country’s biggest challenge is not the laws themselves, but the failure to enforce them because of corruption.
“South Africa has good laws, but those entrusted with enforcing them are involved in corruption. This weakens the system and makes the country look like a banana republic,” he said.
While supporting the enforcement of immigration laws, Baggar expressed concern about calls demanding that even documented foreign nationals and naturalised South African citizens should leave the country. He also warned against violence and any actions that undermine human rights.
“My greatest concern is that some people are saying everyone must go, including those with legal documents. Equally worrying is when campaigns become violent and human rights are no longer respected,” he said.
Baggar arrived in South Africa from Ghana before the advent of democracy after being invited by his father, who was a teacher in the former Transkei homeland. He initially lived in Mthatha before relocating to Matatiele, where he earned a living repairing radios and television sets.
Responding to what he describes as a calling into ministry, he later established a church in Area C, which has since grown into one of the recognised congregations in the community.
Looking at South Africa’s long-term challenges, Baggar believes government should place greater emphasis on skills development and vocational education to equip young people to create their own employment opportunities.
“We need an education system that produces bricklayers, artisans, plumbers, electricians and other skilled professionals. Many foreign nationals have succeeded because they possess practical skills that are in demand. South Africans should be empowered with those same opportunities,” he said.
Listen to the full interview with Apostle Kofi Baggar in The Informer’s podcast, premiering on YouTube on Monday at 12:00 pm.
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