The City of Johannesburg is strengthening support for migrants through programmes that promote legal documentation, access to information, safety, health and social cohesion. The City's Department of ​Social Development hosted a stakeholder workshop on 21 October 2026, bringing together government departments, civil society, international organisations and academia to explore practical ways of addressing migration-related challenges.

Johannesburg has historically been a city of migrants. Recognising the challenges migrants face, the City has established a dedicated Migrant Helpdesk to provide information on available services, immigration procedures and support, while promoting social cohesion and an inclusive city..

The workshop highlighted the importance of building stronger relationships between migrants and host communities, combating misinformation and promoting social cohesion. Participants included the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, and the International Organisation for Migration.

The City's Migrant Sub-unit runs programmes to help migrants understand documentation requirements and compliance processes when applying for legal residency through Home Affairs. It also promotes social cohesion, migrant safety and health, and hosts commemorative events such as Human Rights Day, Africa Day, Heritage Day and World Refugee Day.

“Government and stakeholders play a critical role in ensuring social cohesion through consistent civic education and debunking misinformation found in the media," said Robinson Sathekge of the City's Migrant Sub-unit.

The Department of Social Development and its partners will develop an action plan outlining practical interventions to address migration challenges and strengthen cooperation between migrants and local communities.

Written by Ayanda Radebe
22/10/2026
 

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