Southern Africa has hosted refugees from conflicts across the continent, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Rwanda, to Sudan.

A 27-year civil war in Angola ended in 2002 and since then many refugees and internally displaced persons have been able to return home. However, about 190,000 remained in exile and an additional 19,000 were still internally displaced at the end of 2007.

Political conflict and economic collapse have pushed millions of Zimbabweans to leave their homes. Many head to South Africa seeking safety, or simply looking for work. In addition, government policies have resulted in massive internal dislocation in the name of ensuring order.