The struggling Zimbabwean economy may be dealt another heavy blow if Pretoria does not agree to extend special permits that allow Zimbabweans to work legally in South Africa. Home affairs spokesman Mayihlome Tshwete said last week that Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba was expected to announce any changes in the cabinet position on Zimbabwe special permits (ZSPs) before the end of the month, although all indications are that there is no room for extension. When the permits were introduced in 2014 it was said they would expire at end-2017. Zimbabwe dreads the effect on its economy as remittances from its citizens working in South Africa make up 34% of total remittances. At its peak in 2014, Zimbabwe's overall remittances topped $1.2-billion (about R15-billion). With declining foreign direct investment, cash shortages and falling revenue, remittances have become a vital lifeline to keep Zimbabwe's moribund economy afloat. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has been pushing for increased r...
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