SA signs MOU with Zimbabwe

On 4 May 2009, the South African and Zimbabwean departments of Home Affairs signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate the legal movement of people between the two countries.

The MOU came about after numerous meetings over the past two years between South African and Zimbabwean government officials and ministers.

In her speech, Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said that the MOU was also a measure for the two countries to strengthening their efforts to fight human trafficking, human smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

In addition, the Minister announced that as of 17 April 2009, South Africa has lifted visa restrictions against Zimbabwean citizens visiting the country for periods of up to 90 days. This is in line with similar agreements with Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Lesotho, Swaziland and Mauritius. The lifting of visa restrictions is a further step towards implementing the SADC Protocol on Facilitation of Movement, which South Africa has signed and ratified.

In future, the Zimbabwean departure permit, or border pass, will be accepted as a legitimate travel document.

“It is my wish that any capacity building and cooperation in this agreement will support the efforts to rebuild the Zimbabwean economy. The signing today is a token of our sincere desire to build a stronger southern African region”, said Minister Mapisa-Nqakula.

The Zimbabwean government signatories to the MOU were the joint ministers of Home Affairs, the honourable General GT Mutsekwa and the honourable KCD Mohadi. In both their speeches, the ministers thanked the South African government for making it easier for Zimbabwean nationals to travel to South Africa. “Our people back home are happily awaiting the results of this joyous occasion. It is now possible for our nationals to come to SA freely, knowing they have safe entry,” said General Mutsekwa.

Minster Mohadi said that the SADC protocol is the precursor to free movement of people on the whole continent. He also committed the Zimbabwean government to adhering to the letter of the agreement.

For enquiries or further information:
Ms Cleo Mosana
Mobile: 082 902 8796
E-mail: cleo.mosana@dha.gov.za

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