1 week Ago By James Gwati
South Africa – The Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have bought more buses and drones to be used to deport illegal border crossings ahead of the festive season. These measures, described by critics as xenophobic, primarily target Zimbabweans and other regional migrants seeking refuge in Pretoria amid economic hardships back home. At the same time, Botswana has adopted a more inclusive approach, expediting documentation processes for skilled Zimbabweans to fill labour gaps in its booming economy, particularly in the diamond sector.
The use of drones, hailed as a first-of-its-kind initiative, was launched by Democratic Alliance (DA) Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. At the launch event, Schreiber emphasised the government’s commitment to rigorously monitoring South Africa’s borders. “No longer will it be the case that people can move around without us having eyes on them,” Schreiber said.
“We want to send a very clear message to people who want to violate South Africa’s immigration laws: for the very first time, you won’t even know that we are seeing you. We are above you, we are around you, and we are watching for infringements along the borderline.” The drones will be supplemented by body cameras for border guards to prevent corruption and ensure safety.
To further bolster enforcement, the government has introduced buses tasked with deporting undocumented migrants back to their home countries. Schreiber stressed the importance of distinguishing between those who follow the law and contribute to the South African economy and those who do not. “We welcome any traveler, investor, tourist, or skilled person who will follow our laws and help us build South Africa.
But that is different from people who violate our law and don’t want to comply with our rules.” In a symbolic demonstration of the new measures, the first wave of deportations saw 290 illegal miners sent back to Mozambique. While South Africa tightens its grip, Botswana has taken a markedly different stance.
The country announced plans to expedite work permits and documentation for skilled Zimbabweans already contributing to its economic growth. The move, celebrated by many Zimbabwean professionals, is part of Botswana’s broader strategy to harness regional talent in key industries. The contrasting approaches highlight divergent regional strategies toward migration.
While South Africa’s methods are increasingly focused on border militarisation and mass deportations, Botswana’s policies appear to underscore the potential of skilled migrants to foster economic development..
