- More than 6,000 foreign nationals work in various government departments, according to Public Service and Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi.
- Gauteng stands out as the province with the highest number of foreign employees, particularly in the health and education sectors.
- South Africans are raising concerns about why locals aren’t being prioritized for these roles when unemployment remains a national challenge.
The topic of foreign nationals in South Africa has been a hot-button issue lately. Much of the focus has been on those here illegally, with many calling for their deportation. But here's something that might surprise you: even the South African government employs foreigners. Let's dive into the details and explore why this is happening and what it means for the country.
Minister of Public Service and Administration Mzamo Buthelezi recently addressed this issue, confirming that as of July 31, 2024, there were 6,220 foreign nationals employed in government roles. That’s a significant number, and it’s sparked a lot of conversation across the country.
Gauteng Tops the List for Foreign Employment
When we look at the provinces employing the most foreign nationals, Gauteng takes the lead. This bustling economic hub accounts for 1,705 foreign employees. Following closely behind are Mpumalanga with 653 foreigners and KwaZulu-Natal with 647. On the other end of the spectrum, the Western Cape, Limpopo, and the Free State have the lowest numbers. It’s clear that Gauteng's demand for skilled labor is driving much of this trend.
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Minister Buthelezi Defends the "Tiny" Percentage
While the figure of 6,220 foreign nationals might seem large, Minister Buthelezi emphasized that it represents only a tiny fraction of the total government workforce. She pointed out that this number accounts for just 0.5% of all government employees. And remember, this includes temporary staff as well. The health and education sectors are the primary areas where these foreign workers are concentrated. These industries often require specialized skills, which might explain why they’ve turned to international talent.
South Africans Question the Hiring Practices
The public reaction to these numbers has been mixed, with many South Africans expressing frustration. People are asking tough questions: What qualifications do these foreign workers bring to the table? And more importantly, why can’t locals fill these roles? Let’s take a look at some of the reactions from social media:
@MervynFiford1:
“Still a huge number of foreigners employed in SA government departments. And the big question is, WHY?”
@Soul_of_Wits:
“@deptoflabour must explain how these people got these jobs. Are they rare skills? Who on earth came up with the so-called 'critical skills list'? It's a stupid idea.”
@ZNxarhuni:
“We need not one single one of them.”
@b_dikela:
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“How did these foreign nationals get government jobs in SA? Did they steal their IDs? If so, why should they not be removed? Also, I know some Rwandans in the Department of Energy who must have gotten there by devious means.”
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Calls for Deportation of Illegal Foreigners
Adding fuel to the fire, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has made strong calls for the deportation of illegal foreigners. He insists that only those with legal status should be allowed back into the country. Premier Ntuli is advocating for stricter measures, arguing that illegal immigrants are linked to rising crime rates in South Africa. His stance reflects a growing sentiment among many South Africans who feel the country needs to prioritize its own citizens first.
The debate surrounding foreign nationals in South Africa is complex and emotional. On one hand, there’s a recognition that certain skills may not be readily available locally. On the other hand, the unemployment crisis in the country demands urgent attention. As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: finding a balance between welcoming global talent and supporting local job seekers will be crucial for the nation’s future.
