'Migration to South Africa is nothing new,' says Zimbabwean ambassador

Zimbabwe's Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi, has described the migration of Zimbabweans to South Africa as part of a broader, global phenomenon.

He emphasised that migration is neither new nor unique to Zimbabwe, citing examples of people leaving even the most developed nations in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

Since the early 2000s, millions of Zimbabweans have left their homeland, driven primarily by an economic crisis under the ZANU-PF-led government. South Africa has become the destination for many, with a large number living and working there, some without legal documentation.

Speaking on the SABC programme Face The Nation, Hamadziripi explained that the movement of Zimbabweans to South Africa has historical roots.

"Migration from Zimbabwe to South Africa is not a recent phenomenon. It is historical, and we can go back many years to see this pattern. Zimbabwe is not the only country with nationals who come to South Africa. Migration is an individual decision, driven by various factors. Even in countries considered the best to live in, people migrate for better prospects," Hamadziripi said.

When asked about the Zimbabwean government's responsibility in addressing the economic challenges that force citizens to leave, Hamadziripi noted: "The government of Zimbabwe is taking all measures it can to improve the economic situation in Zimbabwe."

The influx of Zimbabweans into South Africa has sparked controversy over the years, with concerns about the strain on the country's resources. In August 2022, Limpopo's then-Health MEC, Phophi Ramathuba, made headlines for her remarks about Zimbabwean migrants overburdening the provincial healthcare system.

Ramathuba told a Zimbabwean patient at a Bela Bela hospital that South Africa's healthcare system was not a charity. She added that foreign nationals were not accounted for in the provincial budget.

Her comments drew widespread backlash, with the Zimbabwean embassy expressing dismay and urging diplomatic dialogue to resolve the issue.

Hamadziripi's comments didn't sit well with many on social media, as they criticised the ambassador's statement.

Baisi Mosoane-Pambo said: "But please, not the whole country coming to South Africa, bathong."

Tebogo M Ngobeni stated: "Passing the buck. That ambassador is passing off their responsibility as a government of Zimbabwe to South Africa. As if South Africa is a babysitter or rich aunty left to take care of Zimbabweans."

Kíng Kong said: "They've failed their people; now they want them to feel like they are protecting them here, but they can't improve their economy. He must take his people and go back home. Yaz Zimbabweans act like they are better than anyone." Ncuthu Mazangwa said: "He should have just kept quiet because he has said absolutely nothing."

Nduza Mpho added: "Migration is not a problem; you are our brothers. The problem is those who illegally cross the borders and commit crime knowing very well they won't be caught or sit in prison for long."

Elize Van Der Merwe stated: "Just remember, charity begins at home🙄🙏."