South Africa is at the heart of migration in Southern Africa, as the region's largest migrant-hosting country and a key driver oflabourmobility and trade, said IOM Director General Amy Pope during her official visit, reaffirming commitment to strengthening cooperation with South Africa and Lesotho.
"South Africa shapes how migration is governed across this entire region. Its leadership matters far beyond its own borders," said Amy Pope, IOM Director General. "Expanding safe and regular pathways is the right answer to unlock economic growth and reduce irregular migration at the same time. That is what we are here to support."
South Africa alone hosts 2.6 million international migrants, making it the largest host in Eastern and Southern Africa, followed by Uganda with 2.1 million and Ethiopia with 1.2 million. This positions South Africa as a major destination for work, trade, and investment. According to IOM's "Region on the Move" 2023-2024 report, the region is home to 12.9 million international migrants -representing1.8 per cent of the population and 43 per cent of all migrants in Africa.
South Africa drives jobs and growth across the region. As the region's biggest and most diverse economy, it connects labour markets, trade routes, and remittance networks that support millions of families beyond its borders. Migration to South Africa has a real impact onneighbouringcountries. InLesothothe impact of migration on development isevidentthrough the remittances that make up around 22 to 23 per cent of the country's GDP.
Limited regular pathways force many people onto irregular routes, putting them at risk of exploitation and adding pressure on border systems. During her visit, DG Amy Pope met with top officials to highlight IOM's support for South Africa and Lesotho's priorities, including stronger borders, modern ID systems, and policies that make migration safe and organized. IOM is also helping expand legal work opportunities, protect vulnerable people, and improve systems for climate-related displacement.
In South Africa, IOM is supporting reform efforts that attract skills and investment, recognizing migration as a driver of economic growth. In Lesotho, the Organization is strengthening engagement with the diaspora, improve remittance systems, and promoting cross-border work labour mobility, creating opportunities for young people.
The visit also highlighted South Africa leadership in migration, and Lesotho's championing role in the Global compact for Migration (GCM). They play key roles in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Migration Dialogue for Southern Africa (MIDSA) and are actively engaged in the Global Compact for Migration and the International Migration Review Forum.
IOM's visit to South Africa comes at a milestone moment: IOM's 75th anniversary, 25 years of Migration Dialogue for Southern Africa (MIDSA), and 30 years of IOM operations in South Africa.It'sa chance to mark progress and set clear goals for long-term partnerships.
