Nomakhosazana Meth is the Minister of Employment and Labour argues that illegal immigration should be viewed not only as an immigration challenge but also as a matter of national security. She examines concerns around undocumented migration, border management, organised crime, security vetting and public confidence in the state's ability to enforce immigration laws.
Over the past three decades, South Africa's labour market has undergone significant transformation in its legal framework, demographic composition and sectoral dynamics.
Before 1994, mining, agriculture and manufacturing dominated the economy. While these sectors remain critical to economic growth, South Africa has diversified considerably. Telecommunications, information and communication technology (ICT), tourism and other industries have expanded, creating new opportunities and reshaping the country's employment landscape.
This evolution reflects the work of a developmental state that has introduced progressive labour legislation while continuing to adapt its regulatory framework to meet changing economic conditions and emerging workplace trends.
Over the past decade, the economy has gradually shifted away from routine, labour-intensive industries towards more digitised, capital-intensive and service-oriented sectors. As a result, employers increasingly require specialised technical and digital skills.
