Duma Boko, Zimbabwe’s new President, pledged to provide temporary permits to undocumented Zimbabweans in Botswana, recognizing their contributions to the labor market. This move aims to formalize their status and enhance cooperation in skills development, responding to past challenges associated with their undocumented presence while acknowledging the economic role they play in Botswana.
Duma Boko, the newly inaugurated President of Zimbabwe, has announced that his administration is prepared to welcome undocumented Zimbabweans residing in Botswana and to provide them with temporary work and residence permits. Speaking to the BBC shortly before his inauguration, President Boko emphasized the necessity of these individuals for performing jobs that would otherwise remain unaddressed. Botswana is home to a significant Zimbabwean population, primarily due to the economic decline in Zimbabwe, leading many to seek better opportunities in the neighboring country. The newly elected President, who recently ended a long-standing ruling party’s regime, explained that the current influx of undocumented Zimbabweans poses challenges such as limited access to public amenities and potential legal infractions. He proposed formalizing their status to mitigate these issues and to foster a more positive relationship with the community. President Boko underscored the importance of recognizing the contributions these individuals make, especially in sectors where locals are unwilling to engage. Despite the lack of precise figures on Zimbabwean migrants, statistics reveal that they consistently represent a vast majority of irregular migrants in Botswana. A recent report indicated that from 2021 to 2023, nearly 98% of the recorded irregular migrants were Zimbabwean nationals. The President also noted that the influx of skilled Zimbabweans offers an opportunity for local skills transfer in vital trades, thereby improving the overall workforce. In addressing past concerns regarding documentation, he expressed that a structured program would be beneficial for both Zimbabweans and the citizens of Botswana.
The topic of Zimbabwean migrants in Botswana is rooted in economic challenges faced in Zimbabwe, particularly due to hyperinflation and declining living standards. Many Zimbabweans have sought refuge in Botswana, where they often contribute significantly to the workforce, particularly in low-demand jobs that locals avoid. Past administrations in Botswana have implemented deportation policies against undocumented immigrants, adding tension to the situation. The recent statement from President Boko marks a significant policy shift aimed at facilitating formal employment and supporting economic growth through skilled migration.
In his inaugural address, President Duma Boko of Zimbabwe illustrated a progressive approach towards the undocumented Zimbabweans residing in Botswana. By offering temporary legal status and permits, he aims to not only acknowledge but also leverage the contributions of these migrants to the economy, addressing labor shortages while simultaneously promoting skills development. The President’s commitment to formalizing the status of these individuals signals a pivotal shift in regional migration policies.
Original Source: www.theheritagetimes.com
