Migration and Remittances: Digital Technologies, Social Media and Directions for Future Empirical Research in Southern Africa

The rapid adoption and expansion of digital and mobile technologies, financial technology and social media have transformed migration dynamics in Africa, influencing decision-making, integration, social networking and remittance transfers. The surge in the usage of smartphones, digital mobile apps, internet access, artificial intelligence and other information and communication technology has revolutionised remittance flows and information pathways, enhancing migrants’ socio-economic activities. Digital and mobile technologies, as well as social media, are not simply tools. They serve as vital lifelines, facilitating the flow of remittances to vulnerable communities and acting as powerful catalysts for promoting inclusive and sustainable development. Despite these advancements, the intersections between international migration, remittances, digital technology and social media remain under-researched in the Global South, including across Africa. This study employs a desktop research methodology, conducting an in-depth review of peer-reviewed articles, publications, policy documents and sources from online databases. This study examines both the opportunities and challenges within these evolving migration, social media and digital remittance landscapes. The findings highlight significant policy implications, advocating for a research and policy agenda that critically addresses the role of technology in shaping migration in Southern Africa. The study also suggests potential strategies for leveraging technology to promote inclusive and sustainable development.