Understanding how and why informal migrants remit: A case study of undocumented Zimbabwean workers in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

A large number of people have found themselves in South Africa as economic refugees due to the economic decline that has been experienced in Zimbabwe over the years. A significant number are undocumented and therefore face different challenges compared to other groups. Little research has been done to look at this particular group. The research gives a background of the state of the economy and the political reasons that have acted as a push factor to the people. The research seeks to ascertain why and how a group of migrants viewed as especially vulnerable remit. In answering this question, the thesis addresses specific questions such as; the types of jobs and socioeconomic background of migrants, frequency and volumes of remitting and channels of remitting. These questions were guided by the International Theory Migration and an empirical review of motives for remitting.