The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has emphasized the critical need for sustained investment in South Africa's border security infrastructure to address the persistent 'deportation and repatriation revolving door' phenomenon.

During an urgent two-day oversight visit to Musina and Beit Bridge, committee members identified systemic challenges including outdated technology, staffing shortages, and inadequate resources hindering the Border Management Authority's (BMA) effectiveness.

Over 45,000 undocumented foreign nationals were processed in less than a week, highlighting both the scale of the challenge and the collaborative efforts between national and provincial governments.

However, the committee warned that without significant investment in modern technology, skilled personnel, and operational readiness, South Africa risks perpetuating a cycle where individuals are repeatedly deported only to re-enter through vulnerable border sections.

Key concerns included insufficient body-worn cameras for border guards, manual luggage inspections due to outdated scanning equipment, and reliance on a single mobile scanner.

The committee recommended prioritizing BMA funding to ensure constitutional compliance, protect national sovereignty, and create a sustainable immigration system that prevents irregular migration before it occurs.