The Africa Diaspora Forum (ADF) urges the South African government to grant special permits to Zimbabwean domestic workers.
The forum, which represents the interests of foreigners in South Africa, highlights the significant number of undocumented Zimbabwean domestic workers who are currently living or working for South African families.
This situation has led to the need for these workers to sneak in and out of the country when they visit their home country, Zimbabwe, during holidays.
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The ADF spokesperson, Ngqabutho Mabhena, emphasizes the importance of understanding the necessity of granting special permits to domestic workers. Mabhena explains that the South African middle class predominantly employs undocumented migrants, and it is crucial to recognize this demand.
One of the driving factors behind the employment of Zimbabwean domestic workers is the financial struggle faced by the South African middle class.
Mabhena points out that hiring an undocumented domestic worker costs significantly less than hiring a South African domestic worker, who typically requests a minimum wage of R4,000.
In contrast, undocumented workers are paid between R1,500 to R3,000, often with accommodation provided by the employing family. However, despite their contribution to South African households, these foreign workers often face abuse and exploitation due to their undocumented status.
Mabhena highlights the lack of days off and the control exerted over their schedule, with employers sometimes demanding their presence and assistance at all times, including weekends.
Interestingly, Mabhena reveals that some individuals who protest against the presence of Zimbabweans in South Africa also employ Zimbabwean domestic workers in their own homes. This contradiction underscores the complexity of the issue and the need for a comprehensive approach to migration.
Furthermore, Mabhena acknowledges that the question of Zimbabwean domestic workers will be a contentious topic for political parties, including the ANC, in the upcoming elections. Migration has become a prominent election issue, with the focus mainly on the perceived problems associated with undocumented migrants.
In light of these challenges, the ADF calls on the South African government to address the issue of undocumented Zimbabwean domestic workers by granting them special permits.
This would provide legal protection and recognition for these workers, ensuring they are not exploited and abused. It would also contribute to the overall welfare of the South African middle class by offering a viable solution to their domestic labor needs.
Granting special permits to Zimbabwean domestic workers would not only benefit the workers themselves but also promote a more inclusive and equitable society.
It would demonstrate South Africa’s commitment to human rights and fair labor practices, setting a positive example for other countries facing similar migration challenges.
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