President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has expressed support for the United States’ decision to deport Zimbabwean citizens residing illegally in the country.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mnangagwa stated that his government backs the repatriation efforts, aligning with the US policy under President Donald Trump’s intensified immigration crackdown.
This announcement follows the US government’s plans to deport 545 Zimbabweans as part of a broader operation targeting over 1.4 million noncitizens flagged for removal by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Immigration enforcement under Trump’s administration has escalated, with daily detentions exceeding 500 undocumented individuals. The crackdown has also included measures such as cutting aid to developing countries and enforcing mass deportations.
The wave of deportations impacts not only Zimbabweans but also nationals from other African countries. These include 379 South Africans, 174 Zambians, 15 Mozambicans, and 12 Batswana, all of whom face imminent removal. ICE has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the timely deportation of individuals with final removal orders while urging foreign governments to cooperate in accepting their deported nationals.
Zimbabwe’s endorsement of the deportation policy comes amid ongoing discussions about reintegrating returnees into their home country. As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with economic challenges, the influx of deportees may place additional strain on national resources.
