South Africa is experiencing a significant anti-immigrant movement, highlighted by the March and March initiative advocating for the mass deportation of undocumented migrants by June 30, 2026. This movement has emerged amid rising unemployment, declining public services, and increasing insecurity, leading to heightened anti-immigrant violence and repatriation efforts by other African nations. While the movement's grievances are acknowledged, the underlying causes of the economic crisis are being debated.

According to The South African Biz, South Africa's canine units at border posts protect approximately R1.7 billion in revenue annually. The effectiveness of these detector dogs has led to discussions about the potential expansion of the unit.

According to TechCentral, South Africa is not experiencing a digital talent shortage; rather, it faces a shortage of work-ready talent among graduates seeking tech jobs. This indicates that the issue lies not in the availability of skilled individuals, but in their preparedness for the workforce.

In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.

The South African Department of Home Affairs has expanded its Smart ID replacement services to over 200 banks, with more than 250,000 individuals utilizing the service since its launch in March, according to SABC News.

Visa, along with First National Bank (FNB) and Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), is focusing on the corporate cash market, following the trend of South Africans adopting digital payment methods at retail locations. The companies believe that businesses will increasingly move towards digital transactions, similar to consumer behavior.