The Tenacity and Lasting Reality of Cross-Border Movements and Trade in the SADC Region

Cross-border migration and trade are an important and integral part of migration in the SADC region. They contribute to poverty reduction, and are a source of livelihood for many people. Despite the lack of SADC policies that enhance cross-border migration and trade, these appear to be a practical approach to regional economic integration from below. Chapter 8 argues that as countries in the SADC region are committed to the regional integration project, there is a need to seize the opportunity that cross-border trade and migration presents. The chapter suggests that all that is needed are policies that enhance cross-border migration and trade, especially informal cross-border trade, which is regarded as not only informal but in some cases criminal. Ironically, it supports significant numbers of people in the region and is also responsible for moving capital, goods and services. Although unrecognized, cross-border migration and trade are important signposts not only in the political economy of the region, but also in the direction that regional integration should take.