News / National
Zimbabwe records surge in traveller movements
31 May 2025 at 13:50hrs | Views
Zimbabwe is strengthening its reputation as a leading destination for migration and investment in the region, with a notable increase in traveller movements recorded in the first quarter of 2025.
According to Ms. Respect Gono, Chief Director of the Immigration Department, the country recorded a total of 2,095,649 traveller movements between January and March. Of these, 1,051,577 were entries into Zimbabwe, while 1,044,095 were exits.
This figure marks a 17 percent rise compared to the 1,788,873 traveller movements recorded during the same period last year, underscoring growing regional and international interest in Zimbabwe as both a tourist and investment destination.
Ms. Gono attributed this positive trend to Zimbabwe's welcoming stance, abundant natural resources, and progressive policy reforms. "Our beautiful nation remains a significant pull factor for migration. Zimbabwe is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after investment destinations," she said.
The country's vast mineral deposits, fertile agricultural land, and scenic tourism sites are not only attracting tourists but also serious investors, as evidenced by a sharp increase in investor residence permits issued—rising from 333 in the first quarter of 2024 to 454 in the same period this year.
While the issuance of Temporary Employment Permits (TEPs) saw a slight decline, from 2,629 to 2,249, Ms. Gono emphasized that investment interest remains strong and continues to propel Zimbabwe's economic repositioning efforts.
The Immigration Department chief also praised ongoing national initiatives to promote safe, regular, and orderly migration, in line with Zimbabwe's National Migration Policy. She described migration governance as "an opportunity to uphold the dignity and pride of humanity as people wilfully move from one place to another."
However, Ms. Gono acknowledged challenges posed by some foreign nationals who attempt to circumvent legal channels to stay in the country. In response, the Department has intensified crackdowns on irregular migration under the "Comply or Leave" campaign.
During the first quarter of 2025, authorities conducted 65 multi-stakeholder operations—nearly double the 31 carried out in the same period last year—resulting in 146 arrests, up from 122 in Q1 2024. Those arrested included nationals from Malawi, Ethiopia, China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Despite the rise in arrests, deportations decreased to 239 in Q1 2025 from 385 in the previous year, a trend Ms. Gono attributed to improved screening and early intervention measures.
Looking ahead, Ms. Gono stressed the importance of harnessing migration as a driver of national development. "Modern societies are a result of well-harnessed migration opportunities. Our vision for an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 is within reach, thanks in part to our strong migration governance systems," she said.
As Zimbabwe deepens its engagement with the international community and continues to open its doors to business, migration remains central to its ongoing economic transformation.
According to Ms. Respect Gono, Chief Director of the Immigration Department, the country recorded a total of 2,095,649 traveller movements between January and March. Of these, 1,051,577 were entries into Zimbabwe, while 1,044,095 were exits.
This figure marks a 17 percent rise compared to the 1,788,873 traveller movements recorded during the same period last year, underscoring growing regional and international interest in Zimbabwe as both a tourist and investment destination.
Ms. Gono attributed this positive trend to Zimbabwe's welcoming stance, abundant natural resources, and progressive policy reforms. "Our beautiful nation remains a significant pull factor for migration. Zimbabwe is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after investment destinations," she said.
The country's vast mineral deposits, fertile agricultural land, and scenic tourism sites are not only attracting tourists but also serious investors, as evidenced by a sharp increase in investor residence permits issued—rising from 333 in the first quarter of 2024 to 454 in the same period this year.
While the issuance of Temporary Employment Permits (TEPs) saw a slight decline, from 2,629 to 2,249, Ms. Gono emphasized that investment interest remains strong and continues to propel Zimbabwe's economic repositioning efforts.
The Immigration Department chief also praised ongoing national initiatives to promote safe, regular, and orderly migration, in line with Zimbabwe's National Migration Policy. She described migration governance as "an opportunity to uphold the dignity and pride of humanity as people wilfully move from one place to another."
However, Ms. Gono acknowledged challenges posed by some foreign nationals who attempt to circumvent legal channels to stay in the country. In response, the Department has intensified crackdowns on irregular migration under the "Comply or Leave" campaign.
During the first quarter of 2025, authorities conducted 65 multi-stakeholder operations—nearly double the 31 carried out in the same period last year—resulting in 146 arrests, up from 122 in Q1 2024. Those arrested included nationals from Malawi, Ethiopia, China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Despite the rise in arrests, deportations decreased to 239 in Q1 2025 from 385 in the previous year, a trend Ms. Gono attributed to improved screening and early intervention measures.
Looking ahead, Ms. Gono stressed the importance of harnessing migration as a driver of national development. "Modern societies are a result of well-harnessed migration opportunities. Our vision for an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 is within reach, thanks in part to our strong migration governance systems," she said.
As Zimbabwe deepens its engagement with the international community and continues to open its doors to business, migration remains central to its ongoing economic transformation.
Source - Herald
