In our monthly Immigration News from Africa, we update you on important changes in African Immigration.
This edition covers news in the following countries:
- South Africa
- Namibia
- Mozambique
- Tanzania
South Africa
South Africa May Leave UN Convention on Refugees
According to a circulating ANC WhatsApp group message attributed to Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa is considering withdrawing from the United Nations refugee convention.
Additionally, there are discussions about revising the nation’s existing refugee, immigration, and citizenship laws to “redefine the future of our nation”.
Namibia
Namibia Intends to Introduce Smart ID Cards
The Cabinet has given the green light for the inclusion of a Contactless Microchip in Namibian IDs.
In line with this decision, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security has been tasked with exploring the possibility of rolling out digital IDs that would consolidate all national documents.
This move is geared towards reducing expenses and ensuring seamless system integration. These smart ID cards are embedded with a microchip, designed to hold distinct biometric details for each individual.
Mozambique
6.5% Growth for Mozambique Expected
The consulting firm Business Monitor International (BMI) projects a growth of 6.5% in Mozambique’s economy this year, followed by 4.2% the subsequent year. This surge is anticipated due to the rise in production and export of liquefied natural gas, as mentioned in a report released last week.
Three development initiatives have been greenlit in Mozambique to tap into the natural gas reserves in the Rovuma basin. This basin, situated off the coast of the Cabo Delgado province, is regarded as one of the world’s largest gas reserves.
Tanzania
New Foreign Minister Named
On Wednesday 30 August 2023, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced a reshuffle in her Cabinet, introducing a new Foreign Minister. This marks the second major cabinet change since she assumed office in March 2021.
January Makamba has been designated as the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation. Meanwhile, Stergomena Tax, the outgoing foreign minister, will revert to her previous role in the Defence Ministry, a position she held prior to her tenure in foreign affairs.
Written by Simon Carletti, PR and Creative Supervisor
