Nationality, Immigration, and the Rule of Law: A Call for Clarity
By Terries Twananani Hlongwani
It is time to bring clarity to an issue that has generated considerable debate and, in many cases, unnecessary confusion.
Some social media commentators, including those who identify themselves as Gaza influencers, appear to be confusing cultural identity with nationality. These are two very different concepts. Sharing a language, culture, or ancestry does not automatically determine a person’s citizenship or legal status.
The Shangaan/Tsonga people are found across Southern Africa, including South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini. While many people in Mozambique identify as Matsonga or Machangani, being Matsonga or Machangani does not automatically make someone a South African citizen. Likewise, many Tsonga-speaking people are South African citizens by birth or through lawful citizenship.
If a Mozambican national wishes to visit, work, or live in South Africa, they are expected to comply with South Africa’s immigration laws. This includes travelling with a valid passport and obtaining the appropriate visa or permit where required. These legal requirements apply to all foreign nationals, regardless of their language, ethnicity, or cultural background.
Public discussions should therefore encourage respect for the rule of law rather than promoting the idea that a shared language or heritage exempts anyone from legal immigration processes. Respecting immigration laws protects the integrity of South Africa’s borders and ensures fairness for everyone.
I also believe that some Gaza influencers should take time to better understand the distinction between ethnicity, nationality, and
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