Informal Negotiation of the Zimbabwe–Mozambique Border for Survival by Mutare’s Marginalized People

This study investigates, through electronic and print media sources, published books and articles, reports from international organizations, and oral interviews, the irregular ways through which many vulnerable people in Zimbabwe’s eastern border city of Mutare exploited opportunities in neighbouring Mozambique for survival. Most people had to resort to clandestine cross-border activities largely because they could not afford the financial obligations for travel documents, visa fees, border taxes, work permits, as well as import and trade licences. In addition, several of the commodities they imported or exported were either subject to duty, or altogether illegal either in Mozambique or Zimbabwe.