Staff Reporter
The Patriotic Alliance (PA) in South Africa is raising concerns about the country’s border with Zimbabwe, saying it’s too easy for people to cross illegally. They’ve been patrolling the Limpopo River themselves, reportedly turning back over 700 people trying to enter South Africa.
The PA’s deputy leader, Kenny Kunene, wants the government to take stronger action. He’s calling for at least 8,000 soldiers to be stationed along the border and even suggests building a wall to keep the illegal crossers out.
Kunene criticizes the government for not doing enough to secure the borders, saying they’re failing the country. He wants leaders who are decisive and will take action to stop illegal immigration.
However, border jumping by Zimbabweans through the Limpopo River to South Africa is a complex issue driven by multiple factors, primarily economic and political, but also social and individual circumstances.Adding to the already existing primary factors it is also a crucial issue affecting both countries.
According to a UN investigation into the matter the following constitute some of the reasons why people often choose to illegally cross the border,”
“The economic turmoil in Zimbabwe that the country has faced for years, with hyperinflation, currency devaluation, high unemployment, and widespread poverty, has forced many Zimbabweans to cross the border in search of job opportunities, better wages, and a chance to provide for their families.
Formal border crossing difficulties, wherein the official Beitbridge border crossing can be a bottleneck, with long waiting times and with gruesome documentation requirements. Hence for some, jumping the river can be seen as a faster and cheaper alternative, even though it’s illegal and dangerous.
There is also the issue regarding limited political freedoms in Zimbabwe. While not the main driver, some Zimbabweans seek to escape perceived political repression, lack of freedom of speech, and limited opportunities for dissent in Zimbabwe.
Many Zimbabweans already have family members living in South Africa, and crossing the border allows them to reunite with loved ones. Also established networks of Zimbabweans in South Africa can provide newcomers with information, shelter, and access to jobs and resources.
Some individuals are driven by personal ambition and a desire to build a better future for themselves. They may see opportunity and potential in South Africa that they feel is lacking in Zimbabwe,” read the document.
Crossing the Limpopo River is a risky and often desperate choice, and understanding the complex motivations behind it requires a nuanced view of the economic, political, and social conditions in both Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The influx of Zimbabweans in South Africa has caused tensions and concerns about competition for resources and jobs. On the other hand, Zimbabwe’s economy benefits from remittances sent by Zimbabweans living in South Africa and abroad
