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.
The 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). Under Trump’s administration, immigration enforcement has escalated, with daily detentions exceeding 500 undocumented individuals. The crackdown has included measures such as cutting aid to developing countries and enforcing mass deportations.
The deportation wave impacts not only Zimbabweans but also nationals from other African countries, including 379 South Africans, 174 Zambians, 15 Mozambicans, and 12 Batswana, who 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. With Zimbabwe grappling with economic challenges, the influx of deportees may place additional strain on national resources.