Two Burundians were convicted last week at the Karoi Magistrates’ Court for entering Zimbabwe illegally through the Chirundu Border Post. The incident has highlighted growing concerns over regional migration patterns and the persistent challenges facing immigration authorities in southern Africa.
The Burundians , identified as Emmanuel Nyandwi (33) and Obede Tayisenge (25), were apprehended after crossing into Zimbabwe without valid travel documents or clearance from immigration officials. They were charged with violating Section 29(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, which prohibits entry into the country through unauthorized points.
Appearing before Magistrate Talent Phiri at the Karoi Magistrates’ Court, both Burundians pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawful entry. The court sentenced them to a fine of US$150 each. If they fail to pay the fine, they will serve one month in prison as an alternative punishment. The sentencing was meant to serve as both a punitive and deterrent measure against illegal immigration.
According to the facts presented in court, the incident occurred on May 7, 2025. Officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Chirundu, acting on intelligence and routine patrol operations, encountered the two Burundians at a local fuel station where they were attempting to hitch a ride toward Harare.
The detectives approached the men and identified themselves before requesting to see their travel documents. Both Nyandwi and Tayisenge failed to produce any legal documentation to prove their entry into Zimbabwe. They were immediately arrested and taken into custody for further investigation.
Following their conviction, immigration authorities confirmed that the two individuals are currently in detention, pending deportation to Burundi. The deportation process, officials say, is being coordinated by Zimbabwe’s Department of Immigration in collaboration with the Burundian embassy.
Burundians Sentenced for Unauthorized Border Crossing at Chirundu
This incident is one of several recent cases that underscore the ongoing problem of illegal migration across Zimbabwe’s borders. The Chirundu Border Post, located on the country’s northern frontier with Zambia, is among several porous entry points that are frequently used by undocumented migrants. Other high-risk transit areas include Beitbridge (on the South African border) and Nyamapanda (on the Mozambican border).
Zimbabwe’s central location in southern Africa makes it a popular transit hub for migrants from East and Central Africa, including Burundians, Ethiopians, and Somalis, who often aim to reach South Africa in search of better economic opportunities. Unfortunately, many of these journeys are facilitated by smuggling networks or are undertaken without proper documentation, putting migrants at significant legal and physical risk.
The Zimbabwean government has acknowledged the complexity of controlling its long and often unmanned borders. In response, authorities have increased security patrols and surveillance in border regions, particularly at known crossing points. Joint operations between the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Department of Immigration, and border control agencies have become more frequent in an effort to intercept illegal entrants.
The arrest and subsequent conviction of the two Burundians also reflect growing efforts by the Zimbabwean justice system to enforce immigration laws fairly and swiftly. Officials argue that these measures are essential for national security and public safety, especially in the wake of rising cross-border crime, trafficking, and illegal human movement.
A spokesperson for the Department of Immigration emphasized that while Zimbabwe remains committed to upholding human rights and treating all foreign nationals with dignity, there is a legal framework that must be respected by all travelers, regardless of their nationality.
“Zimbabwe welcomes visitors from across the region and beyond,” the spokesperson said. “But entry into the country must be done lawfully, through official ports of entry and with valid documentation. Anyone who fails to comply with these requirements risks arrest, prosecution, and deportation.”
The spokesperson further urged migrants to seek information and proper channels when planning travel to or through Zimbabwe. Governments across the region, including Burundi, are being encouraged to educate their citizens about the dangers of illegal migration and the importance of adhering to international travel laws.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in on the growing trend of undocumented migration through Zimbabwe. While they support the enforcement of national immigration laws, they have called for humane treatment of migrants and improved regional coordination to address the root causes of migration, such as poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunity.
As Emmanuel Nyandwi and Obede Tayisenge await deportation, their case serves as a reminder of the legal and personal consequences of illegal migration. It also illustrates the broader migration pressures facing Zimbabwe and its neighbors in managing borders, upholding the law, and balancing humanitarian concerns.
With the regional migration crisis continuing to evolve, the spotlight remains on the need for enhanced cooperation between African governments, especially in ensuring that nationals—including Burundians—can move safely, legally, and with dignity across borders.
Source- Bulawayo24
