The prospect of an independent Western Cape often meets scepticism, particularly over its ability to secure its borders effectively. Critics argue it’s impractical, economically unfeasible, and contrary to international trends favouring open borders and global integration.
I assert that these concerns are surmountable. An independent Western Cape is both capable and obligated to prioritize its citizens through robust border control and immigration management. This is not isolationism but a commitment to sovereignty, responsibility, and sustainable governance tailored to the region’s unique needs.
Economic Feasibility of Border Security
The Western Cape’s economy, with a nominal GDP of R985 billion (US$55 billion) in 2023, provides a solid foundation for border security. At the global average of 2.4% of GDP for military spending, the region can allocate R23.6 billion (US$1.3 billion) annually to defense. This places the Western Cape’s expenditure above most Sub-Saharan African nations, trailing only Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Angola.
Establishing a functional force, given the SANDF’s decrepit assets, requires an initial estimated R47.2 billion investment over two years, potentially funded by foreign investment and other agreements. The annual R23.6 billion defense budget – met by redirecting R17.6 billion in taxes currently lost to the national fiscus, where only R6 billion is spent in the Western Cape based on population and the R48 billion national defense budget – ensures ongoing security. This budget can sustain 10,000–30,000 personnel, advanced surveillance technologies (drones, biometric systems, cameras), and rapid-response units, making border security both pragmatic and achievable.
A robust border security system, enabled by this budget, is critical to manage the influx of migrants and protect the Western Cape’s strained public services. Unregulated immigration strains public resources, undermining services for citizens. Cape Town’s hospitals are often at capacity, with patient intake exceeding resources during peak migration periods. Schools face overcrowded classrooms, with student-to-teacher ratios 11% above the national average. Controlled immigration policies can protect the labour market, particularly in agriculture (employing 11% of the workforce) and tourism (contributing 9% of GDP, or ~R88 billion). By prioritizing local employment while welcoming skilled migrants, the Western Cape can drive economic growth without sidelining its citizens.
A Sovereign Duty to Citizens First
Sovereignty entails the right and responsibility to prioritize citizens’ welfare. An independent Western Cape must uphold this by managing immigration to safeguard resources and foster social cohesion. National policies, designed for South Africa’s broader context, fail to address the province’s distinct socio-economic landscape and cultural heritage, encompassing Afrikaans, Xhosa, Coloured, Cape Malay, Khoi, and San communities. Uncontrolled migration fuels challenges like illegal land settlements, which strain infrastructure and degrade ecosystems. The Western Cape Government’s 2023/24 Policing Needs and Priorities Report highlights threats such as smuggling and human trafficking, necessitating region-specific responses.
An estimated 0.5-1 million undocumented foreigners—distinct from internal South African migrants—exacerbate these pressures. A tailored immigration framework would implement swift deportation for illegal entrants through a phased plan, supported by processing facilities and options for legal re-entry on valid visas. Internal migrants from other provinces would be addressed separately, with voluntary repatriation programs to their home regions. Restricting public services for undocumented foreigners, while maintaining humanitarian safeguards, deters illegal immigration without compromising compassion. These measures ensure order while adhering to international human rights standards.
Countering International Trends with Pragmatism
Critics cite global trends toward open borders, as seen in the European Union, to argue that strict border control is outdated. Yet, even progressive nations tighten borders when national interests are at stake—post-9/11 security measures and COVID-19 restrictions are prime examples. The Western Cape’s strategic position, with a ~1,500 km land border and ~1,000 km sea border, faces tangible risks: smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal immigration. Modern border management integrates advanced technology—drones, biometric systems, surveillance cameras—with community engagement and international cooperation. Restoring local commandos and training border-area farmers can enhance intelligence-gathering and public support. Bilateral agreements with neighbouring regions will streamline legal migration and curb transnational crime, aligning with global standards while addressing local needs.
Ethical and Inclusive Immigration Management
An independent Western Cape is not anti-immigrant but pro-citizen.
A tailored immigration policy would attract skilled workers to fill gaps in areas such as technology and agriculture while fostering integration through language training, job placement, and cultural exchange programs. Studies show that effective integration reduces social tensions and boosts migrants’ economic contributions, mitigating xenophobia fuelled by economic insecurity and unregulated inflows. Transparent legal processes, including fair hearings and access to representation, will ensure humane treatment of all immigrants, especially vulnerable groups like asylum seekers and children. Policies will comply with international human rights standards, balancing security with compassion.
A Practical Path Forward
To realize this vision, an independent Western Cape must act decisively:
1. Establish Legal Frameworks: Develop transparent processes for legal entry, residency, and deportation, ensuring fairness and human rights compliance.
2. Enhance Border Security: Deploy advanced technologies and trained personnel, including local commandos, to secure the 1,500-km land and 1,000-km sea borders against illegal activities.
3. Promote Integration: Implement programs for language training, job placement, and cultural exchange to reduce tensions and enhance immigrant contributions.
4. Engage Communities: Foster public awareness and cooperation to deter illegal immigration while building trust in governance. Denying services to undocumented foreigners, with laws designed to withstand court challenges, will reinforce deterrence.
5. Collaborate Internationally: Form partnerships with neighbouring regions to manage shared borders and combat transnational crime, including coordinated deportation processes.
Conclusion: A Secure and Prosperous Future
An independent Western Cape can secure its borders, protect its resources, and uphold its responsibilities to its citizens. Far from being unfeasible or contrary to global norms, a tailored border control and immigration system is both practical and necessary. With a R23.6 billion annual budget, bolstered by a R47.2 billion initial investment funded by redirected taxes, the Western Cape can build a lean, effective force. Like the resolve behind Brexit’s unlikely triumph, the will of Cape citizens can drive this vision forward. Growing support in the 2026 and 2029 elections will strengthen our push for a people’s referendum, paving the way for a sovereign, inclusive, and thriving Western Cape that opens its doors wisely – prioritizing citizens while welcoming those who contribute to our growth.
