Published: 25 October 2024, 05:57 GMT
The Zimbabwean government is currently in discussions with South African officials regarding the fate of its citizens who face potential deportation as their Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) expire. This follows recent announcements from South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, who revealed that nearly 19,750 undocumented immigrants were deported, costing the government approximately R52.8 million (around US$3 million).
Zimbabweans constitute the largest group of undocumented immigrants in South Africa, with over 7,000 deported during the 2022/2023 period. In a Senate session on Wednesday, Zimbabwe’s Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed ongoing talks with South African authorities regarding these planned deportations.
Ziyambi stated, “South Africa has its own laws that govern immigration. Our role is to engage in bilateral relations to support our citizens where possible.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by South Africa’s decision not to renew permits granted after 2008, expressing hope for continued negotiations to allow Zimbabweans residing in South Africa to remain.
The ZEP was initially introduced by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs to regularize the status of undocumented Zimbabweans. Approximately 178,000 Zimbabwean nationals who entered South Africa before 2009 were eligible to apply for these permits, which allowed them to live and work legally. Although initially valid for four years, the ZEP has been extended, with the latest permits set to expire on 29 November 2025. However, ZEP holders are not eligible for permanent residency, and the permits are not renewable.
The Zimbabwean government continues to seek diplomatic avenues to ensure the rights and needs of its citizens in South Africa are addressed as discussions progress.