On 12 November 2024, the New South Institute (NSI) hosted a webinar under its Migration Governance Reform in Africa (MIGRA) programme to discuss critical issues in migration policy and governance reform in Africa. The event examined migration trends, governance challenges, and reform initiatives in three key countries: South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya.

The webinar featured three case study presentations: Professor Alan Hirsch presented on South Africa’s migration governance, focusing on the need for comprehensive reform within the Department of Home Affairs; Michael Mutava discussed Kenya’s approach to migration, emphasizing refugee management; and Dr. Victor Amadi examined Nigeria’s migration policy in relation to broader foreign policy and regional stability.

In addition, Amanda Bisong, Policy Officer in the Migration and Mobility team at the European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM), and Dr. Caroline Wanjiku Kihato, Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford’s Department of International Development, provided discussant insights on migration policy coordination and regional cooperation.

For those interested, the case study presentations are available for download:

• South African Case Study Presentation (Alan Hirsch)
• Kenyan Case Study Presentation (Michael Mutava)
• Nigerian Case Study Presentation (Victor Amadi)

A full video recording of the session is now available on YouTube:

Post-Webinar Radio Interview:
On 14 November 2024, following the webinar, Professor Alan Hirsch was featured on The Meeting Point (SAfm) radio programme. During the interview, Hirsch delved deeper into several themes highlighted in the webinar. He examined the historical underpinnings of South African migration policies, including the legacy of colonial-era bilateral labor agreements, and underscored the importance of modernizing these frameworks. Hirsch also noted that while migration has become a contentious political issue, the proportion of foreign-born residents in South Africa is relatively consistent with global norms, suggesting that effective governance rather than restrictive policies should guide reforms.

He further emphasized that strengthening the Department of Home Affairs—through digitalization, robust training, and measures to combat corruption—is crucial to improving the efficiency and fairness of migration governance. Hirsch also argued that broader economic growth, coupled with well-structured labor policies at both the national and regional levels, could alleviate tensions and reduce the pressure often associated with migration.

To listen to Alan Hirsch’s interview, please visit: Reflections on the Outcome of the Migration Governance Reform Webinar.

For further insights into the topics covered in the webinar, please review the following resources:

• Victor Amadi’s Op-Ed on Nigeria’s Foreign Policy and Migration Challenges
• Michael Mutava’s Interview on Kenya’s Migration Challenges and Refugee Management
• Alan Hirsch’s Article on Reforming South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs