ADDO, EASTERN CAPE — Allegations that some farmers are employing undocumented foreign nationals as a source of cheaper labor have raised growing concern among local communities and labor rights organizations, sparking debate over employment opportunities for South Africans and compliance with labor regulations.
Civil society groups are now calling for stricter enforcement of immigration and labor laws, amid recent protests over undocumented migration in parts of the country.
In the citrus-producing town of Addo, approximately 45 kilometers from Gqeberha, community members marched to the local police station this week, urging farmers to prioritize hiring local residents. They contend that the preference for undocumented foreign workers is sidelining the local workforce.
Char September, a community leader who participated in the march and helped deliver a petition to the municipality, explained the seasonal dynamics of the citrus industry. The sector comprises orchard work, where fruit is picked, and packhouse operations. According to September, orchard positions are largely dominated by foreign nationals, while packhouse roles are more frequently filled by local community members.
“Locals only get production work for around five months and then we’ve been laid off,” September said. “The petition we put forward asks the municipality to recognize our community workers forum, so that with their help we can help regulate the appointment of locals and foreigners on the orchard sites.”
September also addressed claims that farmers cite cost as a barrier to hiring South African workers. “They say they can’t afford us because we are expensive,” he noted, adding that a local farmer recently hired workers from other provinces—referred to locally as “Sutus”—who are now also demanding the minimum wage.
When asked how community members verify the documentation status of workers, September emphasized that enforcement falls to official channels. “That’s where Home Affairs and Labor Affairs must come in. We are just community members; we need guidance and regulation.”
Also speaking was a documented foreign national originally from Ghana who has lived in the area for 11 years and identifies as a community apostle. He agreed that undocumented status is unacceptable. “Even in my own country, you can’t be there without a passport. In South Africa, being undocumented is a serious crime,” he said. “Those who are undocumented need to regularize their status.”
On the question of job competition, the apostle pointed to internal migration patterns. “There are migrant workers who are South Africans—coming from Bloemfontein, KwaDukuza, Cape Town—who flock here when the season starts,” he explained. “This is similar to the gold rush of 1886. The citrus industry contributes 2.5% to the country’s GDP, so it’s a booming area.” He stressed that education is needed to distinguish between documented and undocumented individuals, and that verification should be left to authorized bodies like Home Affairs and the police.
A Zimbabwe-born pastor residing in the community also weighed in, echoing the call for proper documentation. “Everyone needs to be documented; there is no negotiation on that,” the pastor said. He noted administrative challenges, including backlogs at Home Affairs offices. “From the Zimbabwean side, we have been applying for permits for some time. We have been given waivers while waiting for permits to be issued. Following proper channels is essential.”
The citrus industry remains a vital economic driver in the region, providing seasonal employment during harvest periods. However, tensions persist over fair access to jobs and adherence to labor and immigration laws.
Farmers in the area were invited to participate in discussions on the matter but declined to take part.
Community representatives maintain that while they support lawful employment practices, they seek greater oversight to ensure local workers are not unfairly excluded from opportunities in their own communities.
