JABULANI SIKHAKHANE: Nothing new in politicians’ fear-mongering over immigrants
The apartheid Nationalists were concerned with the same issues uppermost in debates about foreigners today
05 April 2022 - 15:30
Immigration has been a defining feature of SA for more than 100 years. It is therefore no surprise that it has periodically flared up — as it has now — in the political arena. In the past immigration has been a major factor in electoral outcomes.
It has always had two key elements. The first was the need to bring in skilled workers, initially to help with the development of the mining industry and later the broader economy. The second was about the gold mining industry’s need for cheap, unskilled labour, a crucial factor for an industry faced with the challenge of keeping a lid on costs. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Commenting is subject to our house rules.
BL Premium
This article is reserved for our subscribers.
A subscription helps you enjoy the best of our business content every day along with benefits such as articles from our international business news partners; ProfileData financial data; and digital access to the Sunday Times and Sunday Times Daily.
Already subscribed? Simply sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now