Nearly 100,000 Zimbabwean nationals have returned home from South Africa since the end of May amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment and pressure on undocumented migrants to leave the country, Zimbabwean authorities say. The departures followed an unofficial June 30 deadline announced by the anti-immigration group March and March, which urged undocumented foreigners in South Africa to “self-deport.” The South African government rejected the deadline but has continued enforcing immigration laws against those without legal status.
Zimbabwe’s government said more than 70% of those who have returned are women and children, with all arrivals undergoing screening and profiling at the Beitbridge border transit center. Health officials, working alongside organizations including Doctors Without Borders, have provided medical support and other essential services to returnees, many of whom require assistance after leaving South Africa. Authorities said Zimbabwe has expanded its repatriation and reintegration program through cooperation between government ministries, civil society organizations and United Nations agencies. Support includes transportation, food, temporary shelter, healthcare and access to education for returning children.
Zimbabwe estimates that around two million of its citizens live in South Africa, one of the country’s largest migrant destinations. Officials say they expect more people to return as economic and political pressures continue. The government has also said it is assisting citizens from neighboring Malawi and Zambia who are passing through Zimbabwe on their way back home. The movement of migrants comes amid renewed debate in South Africa over illegal immigration, unemployment and public services, with rights groups warning against xenophobia and discrimination against foreign nationals.
