The article examines common misconceptions about migrants in South Africa, challenging claims that they disproportionately commit crimes or strain public services.

Data from the Institute for Security Studies reveals that undocumented immigrants accounted for just over 2% of crime convictions between 2017 and 2021, with recent prison data showing international migrants made up 12.4% of sentenced inmates—though most were convicted solely for immigration offenses.Public service claims about migrants overwhelming healthcare or education systems are also debunked.For instance, only 1% of Road Accident Fund payments in 2024/5 went to non-citizens, and migrant pupils constituted 1.8% of public school enrollments.Healthcare usage aligns with their population share, as migrants often prioritize health due to the 'healthy immigrant effect.

' The piece highlights how false narratives perpetuate scapegoating, diverting attention from systemic underfunding and corruption in South Africa's services.

It urges critical evaluation of claims before sharing, emphasizing that migration policies should address root causes rather than stigmatize communities.