Migration, Crisis and Temporality at the Zimbabwe–South Africa Border: Governing Immobilities

Musina is a small town in South Africa that became a focal point for displaced Zimbabwean migrants during the 2008 economic crisis. This book explores the role of humanitarian actors and government-led activities in managing migration and the importance of time in understanding African migration and borders.

Format: Hardback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Musina, a small town located just 15 kilometers from the Zimbabwean border in South Africa, gained widespread media attention during the 2008 Zimbabwean economic crisis. This book offers fresh insights into the temporality of migration and the governance of immobilities, particularly focusing on the arrival of thousands of displaced Zimbabwean migrants in Musina.

The author begins by examining the role of humanitarian actors in assisting migrants and assessing the long-term outcomes of government-led initiatives. Through this comprehensive analysis, the book sheds light on the intricate interplay between state and non-state practices in managing largely immobile populations, emphasizing the significance of time in understanding African migration and borders.

This insightful assessment provides valuable perspectives on the complexities of managing migration in a region characterized by political instability and geographical boundaries. It underscores the importance of collaboration between humanitarian organizations, governments, and local communities in addressing the challenges faced by migrants and promoting sustainable solutions. By delving into the temporal aspects of migration and examining the long-term impacts of government policies, this book contributes to our understanding of the dynamics of African migration and the broader geopolitical context in which it occurs.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529225815