Economic Renaissance: Botswana’s Strategy to Embrace Zimbabwean Migrants
Botswana’s new president, Duma Boko, has announced plans to legalize undocumented Zimbabweans by granting them temporary work and residence permits. Speaking on the BBC Africa Daily podcast before his inauguration, Boko emphasized that these individuals perform essential jobs that would otherwise remain undone. Botswana hosts the world’s second-largest community of Zimbabweans fleeing economic hardship, with many facing daily deportations. Although the decision may be unpopular, Boko views it as part of his economic revival strategy.
The influx of undocumented Zimbabweans, crossing the porous border, poses challenges. Boko noted that their lack of documentation limits access to amenities, pushing them to live outside the law and sometimes commit crimes, which fuels resentment. Formalizing their status would acknowledge their presence in Botswana and integrate them into society. Statistics show that Zimbabweans account for 98% of irregular migrants, with many crossing the border since Zimbabwe’s economic collapse two decades ago.
Deportations of Zimbabweans without proper documentation or those involved in crimes are a daily occurrence. These migrants often work in low-paying jobs, such as domestic and farm labor. Boko highlighted that Zimbabwean workers perform tasks that locals find unattractive, reducing potential conflict. However, a recent proposal to use identity cards instead of passports for travel between Botswana and Zimbabwe faced backlash, with concerns about increasing Zimbabwean arrivals.
Boko sees his initiative as an opportunity for skills transfer, allowing Batswana to learn trades like welding and plumbing from Zimbabweans. He emphasized the need to develop local skills while utilizing Zimbabwean expertise legally and appropriately. Boko, a human rights lawyer and founder of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) party, aims to be accessible and inclusive, encouraging public engagement. His primary focus is on economic improvement, starting with a new deal with diamond giant De Beers to boost investor confidence and create 100,000 jobs annually over the next five years. Boko’s inauguration will take place at the national stadium in Gaborone, declared a public holiday, with international dignitaries expected to attend.
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