Legalization Initiative
Botswana’s new president, Duma Boko, has announced plans to legalize the status of undocumented Zimbabweans residing in the country. This initiative involves granting temporary work and residency permits to these individuals.
Economic Considerations
In a conversation with BBC, President Boko remarked, “They do jobs that would otherwise not get done.” The majority of Zimbabweans in Botswana have fled their home country due to severe economic conditions, and their presence has at times been met with resentment, leading to frequent deportations.
Context of Migration
The new policy comes in response to the significant influx of Zimbabwean migrants, contributing to the second-largest community in Botswana. The president’s move aims to positively impact the economy while acknowledging the reality of their situation.
Strategic Benefits
Boko, who recently took office after ending a long-standing ruling party’s governance, emphasizes the need for economic revitalization. He stated that Zimbabweans “come in and are undocumented,” which often restricts their access to basic services and pushes them towards illegal activities, increasing social tensions. He expressed the necessity of formalizing a system that acknowledges their contributions.
Numbers and Data
While exact figures on the Zimbabwean population in Botswana remain vague, reports indicate that around 98% of irregular migrants are from Zimbabwe. A recent governmental report noted that from 2021 to 2023, out of 13,489 recorded irregular migrants, 13,189 were Zimbabwean nationals.
Community and Skills Sharing
Boko’s strategy also includes leveraging the skills of Zimbabweans, stating, “In any and every construction site in Botswana the majority of people with those skills are from Zimbabwe.” He aims to facilitate a skills transfer program to enable Botswana citizens to learn from their Zimbabwean counterparts.
Call for Economic Growth
Amid high unemployment rates of nearly 30% in a population of 2.4 million, Boko has pledged to create 100,000 jobs annually over the next five years. This ambition is supported by plans to negotiate a new deal with De Beers, a global diamond company, to secure better economic returns for the nation.
Engaging the Youth
In addition to immigration reform, Boko encourages youth entrepreneurship, stating that the government should assist in providing “access to affordable finance and access to markets.” He believes empowering young people is crucial for economic progress.
Conclusion
Duma Boko’s inauguration is set to take place at the national stadium in Gaborone, marking a significant shift in Botswana’s political landscape and immigration policy, with international guests expected to attend. His administration’s focus on economic recovery and inclusive policies reflects a new era for the southern African nation.
