BMA Calls for Urgent Talks with Zimbabwe Over Undocumented Child Crossings

15 January 2026

By Emelda Jinya

South Africa’s Border Management Authority has called for urgent engagement with the Zimbabwean government following the interception of another group of undocumented children at the Beitbridge border.

On the 13th of January, officials stopped 33 Zimbabwean children, aged between four and 15, who were attempting to cross from South Africa into Zimbabwe without proper travel documents. Two Zimbabwean men were arrested for allegedly facilitating the illegal crossing.

The BMA says this follows a similar incident earlier this month involving 20 children near the Limpopo River. Authorities have raised serious concerns about the safety of minors using illegal and dangerous routes, warning of risks including exploitation and abuse.

The BMA is urging coordinated action between the two countries to ensure children cross the border safely and legally.

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