Zimbabwe Remittances Remain Resilient Amid Return of Citizens from South Africa, Mnangagwa Official Confirms

The return of Zimbabweans from South Africa, who were fleeing xenophobic attacks, will not impact the country’s remittances, which constitute a substantial share of GDP, according to a government official.

According to recent statistics, Zimbabwe has recorded US$1.55 billion in diaspora remittances, a figure projected to double by year‑end.

The Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications in President Mnangagwa’s office stated that the recent return of Zimbabweans from South Africa will not diminish remittance flows. Authorities report that nearly 100,000 Zimbabweans have been repatriated since May, with additional returns anticipated.

“Will Zimbabwe see a decline in annual remittances following the anti‑migrant wave in South Africa? While expectations suggest a decline, the actual outcome may differ. Uncertainty remains.”

“Overall, remittances are primarily driven by Zimbabwe’s professional diaspora, a segment that remains robust and well‑established.”

“Given the substantial disposable income of this professional diaspora segment, it is reasonable to expect continued stability in remittance flows,” Charamba said.

Last year, the Treasury estimated that 28.6% of the $2.72 billion in remittances originated from the United Kingdom and 27.5% from South Africa.

Amid forced xenophobic deportations of Zimbabweans in South Africa, there were fears that remittances might plunge.

“In fact, remittances may increase, as this group seeks to bolster their future return by sending more than just basic support and considering home investment as a precautionary measure. The anti‑migration wave could spur such precautionary investments,” Charamba added.

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