Catholic dioceses across the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) region have marked the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, as South Africa continues to experience tensions surrounding undocumented migrants and refugees.

In the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, the Department for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees held its celebration at the Cathedral of Christ the King Hall during the week, rather than in different parishes as is normally the case, because of security concerns.

The gathering brought together migrants, refugees and South African citizens.

‘We are walking together’

Sr Marizete Garbin, Head of the Department for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg since 2019, said the celebration was an opportunity for different communities to share their experiences and reflect on how they can move forward together.

“It is important for migrants to reflect that they are not alone in this society, that we are walking and we are making ways together,” she said..

“This is very important because we support each other.”

Her words come as anti-undocumented migrant marches and growing tensions have affected migrant and refugee communities in different parts of South Africa.

Migrants urged to keep hope

Among those attending were migrants from Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire.

Abi Abou, originally from Côte d’Ivoire and living in South Africa since 2010, acknowledged the difficulties of life away from one’s homeland but encouraged migrants not to lose hope.

“When you are a foreigner, you leave your country, the first person you must hope on is God,” he said.

“In South Africa its not easy. But if we are standing here, talking, witnessing and testifying, it is because of the grace of God.”

For Egyptian couple Emad and Amal Atia, who have been in South Africa for only two weeks, the celebration provided an opportunity to meet people from different countries and experience solidarity.

Refugees speak of documentation challenges

Refugees and migrants from the Democratic Republic of Congo also spoke about the challenges they face.

Deborah Mutombo, born in the DRC and raised in South Africa, said difficulties updating her documents have limited her employment opportunities despite her education and skills.

“I can find a job, I can qualify for it, but the mere fact that my documents are not updated yet, I can miss opportunities,” she said.

She expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church’s assistance, particularly through education, skills development and other forms of support.

The celebration highlighted the Church’s continuing commitment to accompany migrants and refugees, especially those facing uncertainty, vulnerability and exclusion.