The UN estimates SA hosts about 2.9-million workers from other Sadc countries, with the bulk coming from Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Lesotho
The Beitbridge border fence between SA and Zimbabwe. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi
Zimbabwe reported a record number of new coronavirus cases this week, with more than one in three people being tested showing positive results. And that’s before the end-of-year rush, which usually starts in the second half of December. As many as 35,000 people usually travel daily through the SA-Zimbabwe Beitbridge border post during the holiday season. Lines of vehicles waiting to cross can extend for nearly 10km.
Still, indications that the new strain may bring milder illness could reduce the pressure, although it’s too soon to tell. Low vaccination rates add to the spread. Zimbabwe has fully inoculated about 20% of its people; in Mozambique, the figure is less than 15%.
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