Human trafficking across Beitbridge border post: Implications for Zimbabwe and South Africa post 2000 era.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish the implications of human trafficking across BBP for both Zimbabwe and South Africa post 2000 era. Qualitative research was used to collect data. The sample comprised of eight (8) key informants from crucial institutions including ZIMRA, IOM, Department of Home Affairs, ZRP and the Immigration Department. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. Questionnaires, reviews of secondary documents and interviews were used to collect information. To supplement the study, documentary analysis was also carried out. Data were analysed through descriptive and thematic analysis Findings of this study suggest that South Africa is a hub of the illegal trafficking business. Theporous Zimbabwe-South Africa border is a source of risk to trafficking. The infrastructure at BBP and several illegal entry points including the Limpopo River exposed Zimbabweans. Zimbabwean and South African police officers jointly and separately patrol the border especially at night together with other security agents. Patrols are however, not effective as there are human capital challenges. The research recommends that Zimbabwean and South African governments should further strengthen policies to deal with bureaucratic corruption at BBP and other borders that facilitate the successful supply of trafficked victims. Future studies can reconcile factors such as corruption in shaping the relationship between globalisation and human trafficking particularly for Zimbabwe and South Africa. Further research could also locate the intensity of this activity and the implications to development of Zimbabwe as a single type of trafficking and focus should also be on assessing labour trafficking in the SADC region and implications for the nternational community.