The migration of Zimbabweans to South Africa has experienced a notable increase over the past two decades, largely due to the political turmoil and economic instability in Zimbabwe. While much attention has been placed on the socio-economic implications of this migration, it is imperative to also address the effects on the migrants and their families. This article seeks to explore the insights provided in the book ‘Transnational Families in Africa’ to demonstrate how migrants are able to uphold their familial bonds despite the geographical distance.
The impact of migration on individuals and families is multifaceted, presenting a range of challenges, constraints and opportunities. A crucial element of this complexity lies in understanding its influence on transnational family relationships, both in the host country and the country of origin.
The narrative of Chipo serves as a compelling example of the impact of Zimbabwean migration on families. Despite the initial optimism for a brighter future and the pride in being able to provide for loved ones, the separation brought about by migration has strained the bond between parent and child. Chipo, a 40-year-old mother, found herself having to leave her seven-year-old son in the care of her elderly mother in order to seek work and education in South Africa. She expressed concerns about the long-term effects of this separation on her relationship with her son.
Chipo emphasised the pivotal role of technology in maintaining connections with her family in Zimbabwe, specifically noting the significance of WhatsApp. She highlighted that the family has set up a group chat to stay updated on daily life, share morning greetings, Scripture, and address any concerns. This use of technology serves as a way to recreate family interactions and uphold familial ties across distances.
However, technology also presents its own set of challenges. Chipo mentioned the high cost of data, which hindered frequent video calls. This cost disparity between migrants and their families can impede communication. Affluent families and urban areas have better access to various types of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), leading to discrepancies in communication between the home country and the host country.
Despite these hurdles, the use of ICT allows migrants to continue providing care to their distant family members. For Chipo, this entailed coordinating medical care for her family in Zimbabwe, seeking advice from pharmacies in South Africa to ensure the well-being of her son and elderly mother.
The inability to bridge the information gap through virtual communication led Chipo to underscore the importance of physical visits, particularly during holidays. She believes that while technology is beneficial, it cannot fully replace the need for physical presence and personal interaction.
Chipo’s story underscores the quandary faced by migrant parents in their quest to alleviate their families from financial struggles. While they may appear to provide improved financial support, the emotional challenges of distance and the potential strain on relationships should not be underestimated.
Contributions to this article were provided by Siko Moyo, a counselling psychologist at the University of the Witwatersrand, who offered invaluable insights into the study.
In summation, the impact of Zimbabwean migration on families in South Africa and Zimbabwe is extensive and intricate. While technology has played a vital role in bridging the geographical gap, the emotional and relational toll of separation cannot be disregarded. Narratives such as Chipo’s shed light on the necessity for a more comprehensive understanding of migration and its effects on family dynamics.