Authors : Rachel Chinyakata, Raymond Nanga Raselekoane and Leah Gwatimba
Abstract: Youth migration has always been part of human history. Musina area, like many other border areas, experiences a variety of challenges as a result of the influx of young people from the neighboring Zimbabwe and other African countries. Of great concern about this migration is the fact that the host country or area may become unsafe and unstable as a result of huge influx of migrants. There may also be tensions between local people and migrants over the resources. The study sought to investigate the effects of the Zimbabwean youth migration on Musina area. The study was undertaken in Musina area which is situated 18 km from the Beit-bridge border post. A qualitative research approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Non-probability quota sampling technique was used to select the respondents. The study sample consisted of 16 respondents. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The study found that the effects of the Zimbabwean youth migration on the Musina area include, among others, tensions between locals and the Zimbabwean youth migrants over resources, job and business opportunities, overcrowding and crime. Multi-pronged strategies which involve different stakeholders should be applied to address tensions over job and business opportunities, overcrowding and crime in the Musina area.
Rachel Chinyakata, Raymond Nanga Raselekoane and Leah Gwatimba, 2018. A Study of the Effects of Zimbabwean Youth Migration on Musina Area, South Africa. The Social Sciences, 13: 357-362.