Zimbabwe: Mass Exodus Into SA

Source: Financial Gazette (Harare), 21/08/2015

ECONOMIST Eddie Cross has claimed that the tightening economic
situation in Zimbabwe has triggered a mass exodus of Zimbabweans into
South Africa.


In an article titled The deepening crisis in Zimbabwe, Cross has
estimated that up to 5 000 people a day are now crossing the country's
southern border into South Africa, a number he said could translate to
more than 40 000 a week or two million people by the end of this year.
"Some will return but the majority will stay and seek new lives. Can
South Africa take such an additional burden at this time? I think
not," said Cross.


Cross, who is also the Movement for Democratic Change Member of
Parliament for Bulawayo South, has blamed the mass exodus into South
Africa, from where only months ago Zimbabwean were fleeing from
xenophobia attacks, on Zimbabwe's worsening economic situation.


"Every aspect of life is affected by the economy and how it is
performing. Despite the statements by the pundits, our economy has
resumed the downwards slide that characterised the economy from 1997
to 2008. Inflows to State coffers have shrunk and suddenly there is no
money in the markets. Companies are retrenching staff or simply
winding up their affairs. Human flight has resumed with a vengeance
into any country that will have our economic refugees.


"The agricultural sector is in dire straits and will contract again
this year - reflecting a continuous and rapid decline in output and
activity since the farm invasions began in 2000. This year the
situation is compounded by a very poor season and a nationwide
shortage of spending power. Unlike 2008, the shops are full of
everything you might desire or need. But this time people simply do
not have the money to buy what they see in the stores. Real hunger and
deprivation is now common in all rural districts," said cross.


Cross warned that "company closures will accelerate", while investor
sentiment will continue to influence incoming investment.


"The consequences will be fully established by year end - hospitals
unable to function except as mortuaries and schools becoming day care
centres for young people who will not get an education. The Diaspora
will strive to keep their extended families fed but there will be
little money left over for anything else," noted Cross.