Christopher Mutsvangwa, the spokesperson for Zimbabwe’s ruling party Zanu PF, has made a surprising prediction about migration patterns between South Africa and Zimbabwe. He believes that in the next two years, many South Africans might start moving to Zimbabwe in search of jobs. His optimism is based on Zimbabwe’s recent economic growth, which he says will soon be strong enough to attract people back home and even reverse the usual flow of migration.
Mutsvangwa, who is also a former Zimbabwean ambassador to China, made his comments during an interview with South Africa’s Newzroom Afrika. He explained that Zimbabwe’s economy is improving significantly, and the country is now capable of absorbing returning citizens. According to him, there is no reason for Zimbabweans to hesitate about coming back because the economic outlook is promising.
Zimbabwe’s economic prospects look bright for 2025, with forecasts suggesting a growth rate of around 6.6 percent. This expected rebound is driven by a strong agricultural sector, ongoing investments in mining and steel industries, and a thriving services sector. The outlook remains positive into 2026, with growth projected at around 5 percent. However, some international organizations are more cautious. The African Development Bank predicts a slower growth rate of about 4 percent in 2026, citing challenges like inflation, currency instability, and external shocks. The World Bank also warns that Zimbabwe still faces risks from high debt, climate-related disasters, and fiscal issues.
The Zimbabwean government has confirmed it is helping its citizens to leave South Africa if they wish to do so. Reports indicate that thousands of Zimbabweans are already crossing the border at Beitbridge, often transporting household belongings like furniture and appliances. Bus operators have seen a significant increase in passengers heading back to Zimbabwe; one bus company owner, Frank Hadebe, said that his trips now carry up to 60 passengers, up from about 20 before May. Some travelers have expressed that they do not plan to return to South Africa.
Estimates of Zimbabweans living illegally in South Africa range widely from 800,000 to as many as three million. The return of these citizens could put additional pressure on Zimbabwe’s economy, which already struggles with high unemployment. More than 80 percent of Zimbabweans rely on informal work to make a living, and an influx of returning migrants could make this situation even more challenging.
Despite the optimism about the economy, critics point out that Zimbabwe still faces many serious problems. The country is burdened with a debt of around US$13.7 billion, and its currency remains volatile. Inflation is expected to end 2025 at nearly 90 percent, although it is forecast to decrease to around 18 percent in 2026. These issues highlight that while economic growth is promising, Zimbabwe’s road to stability remains difficult.