Zimbabweans passing through the Beitbridge border between SA and Zimbabwe. Image: Face of Malawi
(The Post News)- A large number of Zimbabweans are flocking illegally into South Africa through the Beitbridge border post in Musina, Limpopo, in search of greener pastures.
According to reports, the growing number of people coming into the country illegally is due to political instability and sanctions that are negatively affecting their country’s economy.
Zimbabweans were so hopeful for a better life when President Emerson Mnangagwa came to power via military coup in 2017, when the late Robert Mugabe was ousted.
Recent national protests that took place in the country, seeking to put pressure to Mnangagwa, however some citizens opted to stay away rather than take to the streets amid a heavy security presence.
One of the leaders of protests, Blessed Geza posted on X urging Zimbabweans “not to be cowards”, while displaying his trust in Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga as the best suitable candidate to replace Mnangagwa.
Reacting to riots Farai Murapira from the governing party, downplayed some of the social media post saying that they were not a reflection of reality.
Meanwhile, political scientist Ibbo Mandaza said those protesting were doing the wrong thing, citing that the protest was just a massive political statement.
According The Department of Home Affairs, it has increased the number of illegal immigrants it deported to 46 898 in the 2024/25 financial year that ended on 31 March 2025.
The department is also claiming that this is the highest number of deportations they have done in at least five years, and is triple the number conducted in recent years.
“It also flows from improved collaboration between the Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, the South African Police Service and local law enforcement. It further reflects the impact of joint initiatives like Operation Vala Umgodi.” Schreiber said.
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