Botswana’s President to Legalize Undocumented Zimbabweans
In a significant policy shift, Botswana’s newly elected president, Duma Boko, has announced plans to legalize undocumented Zimbabweans by offering them temporary work and residence permits.
Speaking on the BBC Africa Daily podcast ahead of his inauguration on Friday, Boko emphasized the crucial roles these migrants play in the economy, asserting, “They do jobs that would otherwise not get done.”
Botswana is home to the world’s second-largest community of Zimbabweans fleeing economic hardships, yet many face resentment and daily deportations. Boko, who recently unseated a ruling party in power for 58 years, believes that legalizing these migrants is essential for economic revitalization.
He acknowledged the difficulties stemming from the influx of undocumented migrants, stating that their limited access to resources often leads them to operate outside the law, fostering resentment within local communities.
Reports indicate that Zimbabweans account for 98% of irregular migrants in Botswana, with over 13,000 recorded from 2021 to 2023.
Many Zimbabweans work in low-wage sectors, such as domestic and agricultural labor, often filling roles that locals avoid.
Boko highlighted the importance of a skills transfer program, noting that many skilled workers in Botswana’s construction sector are from Zimbabwe.
As part of his broader economic strategy, Boko plans to negotiate a new deal with diamond giant De Beers, aiming to attract investment and create 100,000 jobs annually over the next five years.
His inauguration will take place at the national stadium in Gaborone, a public holiday, with international dignitaries expected to attend.
