RismadarVoice Reporters, June 27, 2026
Chairman of MTN Group, Mcebisi Jonas, has said South Africa’s economic and social challenges are the result of governance failures rather than the presence of foreign nationals.
Jonas made the remarks while delivering a eulogy at the funeral of Zimbabwean-born activist and public servant, Thokozani Damasane, in Johannesburg.
He argued that expelling foreign nationals would not resolve unemployment, inequality, corruption or other socio-economic problems facing the country.
According to him, South Africa’s challenges stem from the state’s failure to effectively manage immigration, secure its borders, enforce the law and provide quality governance.
Jonas also accused some politicians of exploiting public frustration by blaming foreigners instead of addressing the country’s structural problems.
He condemned growing anti-foreigner sentiment and called for renewed commitment to African solidarity, stressing that humanity should take precedence over nationality.
The former Deputy Minister of Finance further criticised identity politics and ethnic divisions, describing them as products of colonial rule that continue to fuel discrimination across Africa.
He urged South Africans to reject ethnic nationalism and embrace a broader African identity, noting that the country’s future is closely tied to the development and prosperity of the African continent.
Jonas also encouraged citizens to judge individuals by their values, integrity and contributions to society rather than by their nationality or ethnic origin.
