Zimbabwe worker exodus intensifies

Years of mass emigration from Zimbabwe have accelerated due to the ongoing economic crisis, further depleting the country of essential skills needed for a turnaround. Recent census data from South Africa revealed an increase in the number of Zimbabwean immigrants in the country, with frequent migration between neighboring countries making accurate counts challenging. Emigration data from Zimbabwe also indicated that 85% of its citizens living abroad were in South Africa. This significant emigration is driven by a combination of economic challenges, high inflation, policy missteps, and low remuneration for professionals.

In the UK, there has been a noticeable increase in the immigration of Zimbabwean professionals in the past year, notably in the health and social care sector, as skilled individuals seek better opportunities abroad. This exodus has led to a brain drain across various professions, and the reasons are largely tied to economic conditions and low remuneration in Zimbabwe.

Remittances from Zimbabweans working abroad have increased, accounting for 16% of the country's foreign currency earnings in the six months through June. This increase in support for relatives back home is an additional indicator of the growing trend of emigration.

The future for Zimbabwe remains uncertain, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa pledging policy continuity after his disputed election victory. The country faces significant challenges, including a lack of foreign credit lines for over two decades and the need to restructure $18 billion of debt.

Many anecdotal accounts suggest that emigration increased in the lead-up to the recent election, as Zimbabweans sought better opportunities overseas. Zimbabwean organizations and institutions, such as the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society and universities, have been inundated with applicants looking for training and courses that could lead to jobs abroad.

However, the government has expressed concerns about the loss of professionals, and Deputy President Constantino Chiwenga has called for legislation to prevent other countries from recruiting skilled individuals from Zimbabwe. The emigration trend is impacting various sectors, from education and healthcare to banking and finance.

Teachers are leaving Zimbabwe in significant numbers, as salaries are much higher abroad, and the country's education standards and the economy are being affected as a result. Likewise, individuals in the banking and finance sector are emigrating due to non-competitive salaries. Additionally, some professionals, like accountants and IT specialists, resign quietly and depart the country without being accurately recorded.