SA says Zimbos can stay, for now

PRETORIA — South Africa yesterday said around 250 000 Zimbabweans living in the country on temporary visas due to expire this year can get three-year extensions, delaying a possible mass expulsion of workers.

Home Affairs minister Malusi Gigaba said a scheme that allowed Zimbabweans to flee the political crisis at home on four-year work visas would be extended until 2017.

“The new special permit is valid only for three years,” Gigaba said, making it clear this was only a reprieve for worried Zimbabweans.

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