“The March and March movement staged a protest outside the Durban International Convention Centre during the closing of the 46th SADC Summit, demanding mass deportations of undocumented migrants. The demonstration highlights growing tensions over immigration policy in South Africa, with activists calling for stricter border controls and accountability from regional leaders.”
On Monday, August 17, 2026, South Africa witnessed yet another flashpoint in its ongoing immigration debate as the March and March movement mobilized supporters outside the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, coinciding with the closing session of the 46th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The protest, branded under the slogan “It’s time to fetch your people,” was aimed at pressuring both the South African government and regional leaders to take decisive action against undocumented migrants.
Background of the Movement
The March and March movement emerged earlier in 2026 as a controversial civic initiative targeting undocumented foreign nationals. On June 30, 2026, the group coordinated nationwide protests across all nine provinces, drawing participation from more than 20 civic organizations. Its leader, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, vowed to continue weekly demonstrations until the government tightened immigration enforcement. The movement’s demands include:
- Stricter visa controls
- Review of asylum policies
- Action against employers hiring undocumented workers
- Accountability for corrupt police officials
- Restrictions on public services for undocumented migrants
The Durban Protest
Today’s protest was strategically timed to coincide with the SADC Summit, where leaders from 16 member states gathered to discuss regional integration and economic development. Protesters carried placards with slogans such as “South Africa is not a dumping ground for refugees” and “Deport illegal migrants now.” The movement’s spokesperson, Sandile Dube, confirmed that the demonstration was intended to send a strong message to both domestic and regional authorities.
Political Context
The protest unfolded against the backdrop of President Cyril Ramaphosa assuming the chairpersonship of SADC for the 2026–2027 term. While Ramaphosa emphasized regional cooperation and economic growth, activists accused the government of neglecting domestic concerns over immigration. The March and March movement announced plans for a “second wave” of national action by September 30, 2026, which it described as the “mother of all protests.”
Public Reaction and Tensions
The protests have sparked heated debate across South Africa. Supporters argue that undocumented migrants strain public services and contribute to unemployment, while critics warn that the movement fuels xenophobia and undermines South Africa’s constitutional commitment to human rights. In provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the Western Cape, tensions have escalated, with reports of foreign nationals leaving communities due to fear of violence.
Regional Implications
By staging the protest at the SADC Summit, the movement sought to internationalize its demands. It called on leaders from neighboring countries—including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, and Lesotho—to take responsibility for their citizens residing in South Africa. The protest underscores the broader challenge of balancing regional integration with domestic pressures over migration.
Conclusion
The March and March protest in Durban represents a pivotal moment in South Africa’s activism landscape. While the movement has succeeded in drawing attention to immigration concerns, it has also deepened divisions within society. As South Africa assumes leadership of SADC, the government faces the dual challenge of advancing regional cooperation while addressing domestic unrest. The coming weeks, particularly the planned September 30 national action, will test whether authorities can navigate these tensions without further inflaming xenophobic sentiment.
