Thousands of Zimbabweans are entering South Africa in search of work and better opportunities as economic challenges remain at home.
Over the past few years, expatriates have established a strong presence in many industries across South Africa.
From farms and restaurants to classrooms and construction sites, Zimbabweans have become part of the workforce that keeps many sectors running.
Agriculture remains a major employer for Zimbabweans
Agriculture remains one of the largest employers of Zimbabweans in South Africa, especially in provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Western Cape.
Many migrants work in fruit farms, vineyards and vegetable gardens where they help with planting, harvesting and packaging for local and international markets.
Seasonal agricultural jobs often attract Zimbabwean workers because they require physical labor and housing is usually provided.
Some workers spend months on the farms before returning home during the off-season, while others settle permanently in nearby communities.
Zimbabweans dominate the domestic sector
Many Zimbabwean women have found employment in South African homes as domestic servants, nannies and caretakers.
Families often hire them to clean houses, look after children or look after elderly relatives.
In cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, Zimbabwe domestic workers Has built a reputation for reliability and professionalism.
Some workers also use domestic jobs as stepping stones while they study or look for better-paying opportunities.
Construction industry attracts Zimbabweans
The construction sector has also absorbed large numbers of Zimbabwean men over the years.
Zimbabweans work as masons, painters, plumbers, tilers, welders and general laborers on construction sites throughout South Africa. Some come with formal technical qualifications while others learn skills on the job.
Contractors often employ Zimbabwean workers for housing projects, road construction and renovation due to their experience and willingness to work long hours.
Restaurants and hospitality provide opportunities
Hotels, restaurants and lodges employ many Zimbabweans in both skilled and unskilled positions.
Some work as chefs, waiters, bartenders and cleaners, while others manage kitchens and hospitality businesses.
Tourist-heavy provinces such as Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal continue to attract Zimbabweans looking for hospitality work.
Many expatriates have also opened their own restaurants and catering businesses, introducing Zimbabwean cuisine to South African communities.
Migration of teaching and health care professionals continues
South Africa has also attracted educated Zimbabweans, particularly teachers and health workers.
Zimbabwean teachers work in public and private schools where they teach subjects such as mathematics, science and English. Many South African schools value Zimbabwean teachers for their strong academic backgrounds.
At the same time, Zimbabwe's nurses and caregivers continue to fill the gaps in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes.
Zimbabweans in e-hailing and delivery jobs
In recent years, many Zimbabweans have also entered South Africa's growing e-hailing and delivery industry.
Some work as drivers for ride-hailing platforms, ferrying passengers across major cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town.
Others use motorcycles and cars to deliver food and parcels to delivery companies.
The sector attracts many Zimbabweans because it offers flexible working hours and the chance to earn a daily income, although drivers often face high fuel costs, crime risks and long working hours.
Informal trade keeps many Zimbabwean families alive
Not every Zimbabwean in South Africa works in the formal sector. Many people survive through informal trade and small businesses.
Some sell clothing, food and household goods in busy townships and city centres, while others operate salons, repair shops and transport businesses.
Cross-border trade has also become a lifeline for families who buy goods in South Africa and resell them in Zimbabwe.
For many migrants, informal business offers independence and the chance to support relatives back home.