This chapter examines the emerging unexplored synergies between digital mobile technologies and cross-border food remittances in Southern Africa. Cell phones and applications for smart mobile devices offer migrants new formal ways of sending food remittances. With large volumes of cash and non-cash items flowing through it, the South Africa-Zimbabwe remittance corridor is a priority market for these new fintech companies. However, recent discussions on digital remittances have focused largely on cash transfers. This chapter aims to stimulate further discussion on the links between digital mobile technologies and food remittances, drawing on the findings of a survey and in-depth interviews with Zimbabwean migrants in Cape Town, South Africa. Our research highlights a marked shift in food remitting away from popular informal channels and the increased use of digital and mobile food transfers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Digital Technologies and Food Remitting Patterns Among Zimbabwean Migrants in South Africa During COVID-19

  • Sean Sithole,
  • Daniel Tevera,
  • Mulugeta F. Dinbabo

摘要

This chapter examines the emerging unexplored synergies between digital mobile technologies and cross-border food remittances in Southern Africa. Cell phones and applications for smart mobile devices offer migrants new formal ways of sending food remittances. With large volumes of cash and non-cash items flowing through it, the South Africa-Zimbabwe remittance corridor is a priority market for these new fintech companies. However, recent discussions on digital remittances have focused largely on cash transfers. This chapter aims to stimulate further discussion on the links between digital mobile technologies and food remittances, drawing on the findings of a survey and in-depth interviews with Zimbabwean migrants in Cape Town, South Africa. Our research highlights a marked shift in food remitting away from popular informal channels and the increased use of digital and mobile food transfers during the COVID-19 pandemic.