Alan Hirsch, Head of the Migration Governance Reform in Africa programme at the New South Institute (NSI), was the lead speaker in a plenary on migration, demographics and macroeconomic dynamics at the 9th African Network of Parliamentary Budget Offices (AN-PBO) Annual Conference. He delivered his presentation, Budgeting for Migration in Southern Africa, on 22 September 2026.

Held from 21 to 25 September in Swakopmund, Namibia, the conference brought together parliamentarians, Parliamentary Budget Offices and fiscal oversight institutions from across Africa. It examined how legislative oversight of public finances can support the implementation of Agenda 2063. The gathering was officially opened by the Speaker of Namibia’s National Assembly, Hon. Dr Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila.

Alan’s presentation considered both the expenditure associated with migration and the contributions migrants make to public revenues. Alongside spending on border management, migration systems and public services, he discussed taxation and the wider economic implications of labour migration, skills partnerships and remittances. He also considered return agreements and the potential fiscal implications of future regional arrangements.

Drawing on his research in South Africa, Hirsch noted that the migration-related costs he had examined represented a very small proportion of the national budget. His presentation did not attempt to quantify an overall fiscal balance for migration across Southern Africa, but set out the costs, benefits and policy arrangements that budget analysis needs to consider.

A central theme was the importance of better governance. Hirsch highlighted the need to modernise labour migration agreements, assess the opportunities and risks of skills partnerships, and strengthen regional cooperation. He argued that well-designed regulations, effective systems and regular evaluation are essential to reducing costs and maximising benefits.

The presentation concluded that migration will remain an enduring feature of Southern Africa’s development. Preparing for it requires institutions and budgets that recognise both its challenges and its opportunities.

Download the presentation: Budgeting for Migration in Southern Africa — Alan Hirsch (PowerPoint).