Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has defended South Africa after the recent xenophobic attacks which saw 7 people killed.
During his Freedom Day keynote address at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Zuma said he was preparing a report which would be presented to the African Union.
He said the report was conducted by interviewing South Africans and foreign nationals.
“People across the country had marches to denounce xenophobia and have had imbizos. The government will take into account the points and we are committed to finding a lasting solution to the problems,” Zuma said.
He said some of the complaints raised by South Africans included the number of illegal and undocumented foreign nationals in South Africa. “Some complained that foreign nationals committed crime in our country. While some complained about that foreign nationals took their jobs because they are willing to be under-paid,” Zuma said.
However, Zuma said there were nationals who were in the country legally and were contributing to the country's economy.
“We will work with communities and stake holders to ensure that support is provided to refugees and asylum seekers.”
Zuma said the measures were in order to improve security at borders and deploying the army in seven provinces to patrol.
Independent Media