The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has sought to address public concern regarding the employment of foreign nationals within state institutions, confirming that South Africans are always the priority in recruitment.
Briefing the media on Tuesday, acting deputy director-general Anusha Naidoo stated that foreign nationals currently account for only 0.44% of the public service workforce, and every appointment complies with the Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, and South Africa’s immigration laws.
Naidoo emphasised that recruitment processes “will always prioritise South African citizens,” and foreigners are only considered under specific, limited circumstances:
When specialised expertise is needed to strengthen institutional capacity.
When verified skills shortages are confirmed by the Departments of Home Affairs and Employment & Labour.
The DPSA’s position, Naidoo explained, is based on merit-based recruitment, which is deemed essential for protecting the professionalism and credibility of state institutions.
She further noted that South Africa cannot operate in isolation, citing the country’s international obligations and partnerships. “As the public service, we are not an island. We have relationships with every country in the world. Various treaties and our own sovereignty mean we cannot simply exclude foreigners. But we assure you: our country will always prioritise our local talent,” Naidoo confirmed.
The media briefing formed part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening integrity, accountability, and ethical governance within the public service.
