‘But not the whole country coming, bathong’ – South Africans react to Zimbabwe ambassador on migrants influx

By Agencies

Zimbabwean Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi, has caused a stir online with his comments about South Africa.

Hamadziripi downplayed the movement of his countrymen to south Africa, pointing out that the migration was part of a broader, global phenomenon.

While explaining why so many of his countrymen come to South Africa, Hamadziripi said it was not unique to Zimbabweans.

Since the early 2000s, millions of Zimbabweans have left their homeland, driven primarily by an economic crisis under the ZANU PF-led government.

South Africa has become the destination for many, with a large number living and working there, some without legal documentation.

Appearing on the SABC programme Face The Nation, the diplomat stated that people often left their countries for better opportunities elsewhere.

“Migration from Zimbabwe to South Africa is not a recent phenomenon,” he said.

“It is historical, and we can go back many years to see this pattern. Zimbabwe is not the only country with nationals who come to South Africa.”

“Migration is an individual decision driven by various factors. Even in countries considered the best to live in, people migrate for better prospects,” Hamadziripi added.

The influx of foreigners into the country has caused a stir over the years, with many South Africans blaming illegal immigrants for high levels of crime and other social ills.

Hamadziripi’s comments didn’t sit well with many on social media, as they criticised the ambassador’s statement.

Baisi Mosoane-Pambo said: “But please, not the whole country coming to South Africa, bathong.”

Tebogo M Ngobeni stated: “Passing the buck. That ambassador is passing off their responsibility as a government of Zimbabwe to South Africa. As if South Africa is a babysitter or rich aunty left to take care of Zimbabweans.”

Kíng Kong said: “They’ve failed their people; now they want them to feel like they are protecting them here, but they can’t improve their economy.”

Boikano Reikemetsi stated: “He must take his people and go back home. Yaz Zimbabweans act like they are better than anyone.”

Ncuthu Mazangwa said: “He should have just kept quiet because he has said absolutely nothing.”

Mpho added: “Migration is not a problem; you are our brothers. The problem is those who illegally cross the borders and commit crime knowing very well they won’t be caught or sit in prison for long.”

Elize Van Der Merwe stated: “Just remember, charity begins at home🙄🙏.”