In December 2024, Zimbabwe documented 49,220 movements, with 1,102 migrants interviewed. The majority were Zimbabwean nationals, with commercial activities driving Zambian migrants’ traffic. A significant increase in movements, particularly in the South Africa-Zimbabwe corridor, was noted. Beitbridge and Harare were key districts for departures and arrivals, respectively.
During December 2024, a total of 49,220 movements were recorded in Zimbabwe, with 1,102 migrants interviewed across 22 Flow Monitoring Points (FMPs). Of those surveyed, 89% identified as Zimbabwean nationals while 6% were Zambians. Notably, among the Zambian nationals, 61% were traveling to Zimbabwe for commercial purposes, predominantly to sell clothing. This month saw a remarkable 67% increase in total movements compared to the previous month, largely due to the festive season.
Inflows represented 74% of these movements, with outflows comprising 26%. The majority of people departing were from Beitbridge (62%), followed by Harare (14%) and Chiredzi (6%). Conversely, the principal destinations for arrivals were Harare (31%), Bulawayo (24%), and Beitbridge (12%). Notably, Matabeleland South reported a significant outflow percentage of 65%, while Harare recorded the highest inflow at 32%. Migrants from Matabeleland South primarily traveled to South Africa, with 62% heading for Limpopo, 18% to the Eastern Cape, and 17% to Gauteng.
The South Africa-Zimbabwe corridor accounted for the vast majority of recorded movements, totaling 46,204, while the Zambia-Zimbabwe corridor witnessed 3,016 movements. Within the South Africa-Zimbabwe corridor, 54% of the movements were categorized as short-term, with 15% considered long-term economic activities. For the Zambia-Zimbabwe corridor, 59% were short-term movements, and 25% were long-term economic in nature. The Zimbabwe Department of Immigration Control reported 322,931 entries and 185,814 exits at the Beitbridge border post, and 19,886 entries and 4,254 exits at the Chirundu border post.
The Flow Monitoring Report for December 2024 highlights significant migration activity in Zimbabwe, primarily driven by commercial motivations and the festive season. The substantial increase in movements, particularly through the South Africa-Zimbabwe corridor, underscores the importance of regional connectivity. Efforts by the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration Control reflect the dynamics of migration flows between nations, indicating trends that may require further analysis for policy development.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
