Regional integration and migrant labour as poverty alleviation strategies in Southern Africa: A case study of Zimbabwe

Abstract

Africa has numerous regional integration groupings, with at least two or more or more in each sub-region. Many African countries are members of more than one regional groupings. In theory, memberships of more than one regional grouping should be resulting in African countries and/or their inhabitants benefiting from preferential economic integration. Regional integration between African countries is a spring board of reduction of inequality or poverty within and among African countries if properly implemented. However, the reality that follows the conclusion of the regional integration agreements is the promulgation of xenophobic and/or domestic anti-migration laws. This article argues for the opening of borders and adoption of pro-migration policies in Southern Africa as a means to allow for free flow of trained human capital between countries. In conclusion, it is argued that regional migration could contribute towards poverty eradication, growth of the economies and ultimate reduction in inequalities within and among countries in the sub-region.