Hundreds of Zimbabweans living in Botswana are applying for a trip home, saying the COVID-19 crisis has left them on the edge of starvation. The immigrants usually survive by doing odd jobs, but with Botswana in a lockdown due the coronavirus, they cannot find work to support themselves.
Additionally, the immigrants were initially excluded from the Botswana government's food parcels.
"We are in a bad state," said Josephine Mutsaka, 54, one of many Zimbabwean illegal immigrants in Gaborone. "We have no food at the moment, and the only option is to go back home. When we are in Botswana, we survive through 'piece jobs' but that has stopped because of the lockdown. We can't blame the Botswana government for giving priority to its citizens."
Botswana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Unity Dow, told local media that officials are discussing how to address the plight of immigrants.
Some Zimbabweans had crossed into Botswana for shopping but were kept in due to the lockdown.
Some immigrants, like Tendai Ndlovu, are eager to return home, although returning Zimbabwean residents face a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
Ndlovu is wary of being locked in the Zimbabwe government's holding center.
"We do not know how long the coronavirus will be around," Ndlovu said. "In the meantime, I want to return home to be with family, although I have heard people complain of poor conditions during the quarantine in Plumtree."
Plumtree is the only crossing point between the southern African neighbors that is currently open.
A Zimbabwean embassy official confirmed the office has begun a process to repatriate both legal and illegal Zimbabwean immigrants.
It's not known how many Zimbabweans live in Botswana, but in an average year, Botswana's government deports about 15,000 illegal immigrants to Zimbabwe.
The Botswana government says it will assist the immigrants with transport up to the two countries' border post, with the first returnees expected at the Plumtree entry point on Thursday.
Info News
Choosing the Best Truck Collision Attorney for Your Case
Selecting the right truck collision attorney is essential for achieving a successful outcome. Clients should look for lawyers with proven experience in handling commercial truck accident cases, as well as a strong track record of settlements and verdicts. Knowledge of trucking regulations and access to expert witnesses are also key factors to consider.
A reputable attorney will offer personalized attention and clear communication throughout the legal process. They will evaluate the case thoroughly, explain legal options, and develop a strategy tailored to the client’s needs. With the right legal partner, victims can confidently pursue justice and secure the compensation they deserve.
High-Yield Savings Accounts: Growing Your Money More Efficiently
High-yield savings accounts offer consumers a safe and convenient way to grow their savings faster than traditional bank accounts. Many online banks and financial institutions provide competitive interest rates while maintaining flexible access to funds and secure account protection.
These accounts are often used for emergency savings, vacation funds, or long-term financial goals. Because deposits are usually insured through government-backed programs, high-yield savings accounts provide both security and financial growth opportunities. Some banks also offer mobile banking tools, automatic transfers, and budgeting features to help customers manage money more effectively.
Choosing the right savings account involves comparing interest rates, account fees, withdrawal limits, and customer service quality. Online banks often provide better rates because they operate with lower overhead costs compared to traditional banks.
Building consistent savings habits is an important step toward financial security. Regular deposits and smart budgeting can help individuals achieve financial goals and prepare for unexpected expenses more confidently.
