In Pictures
Zimbabwean migrants take refuge from the cold
Zimbabweans who flock to South Africa continue to face trying conditions, but many choose to stay.
The Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg is a rare sanctuary for migrants who arrive in South Africa.
As Zimbabwe went to the polls on Wednesday, tensions remained high in South Africa – home to hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans who have fled since the country’s 2008 election.
The church is a haven for many of these Zimbabweans, and many expressed their concern in a service late on Tuesday night.
During a heartfelt service, some spoke out and began to debate Zimbabwe’s political parties and leaders.
Most people at the service said they just wanted peace, and to see their country rebuilt – no matter which party was in power.
The following images take a look inside the church’s crowded hallways and basement – areas that many of the undocumented migrants have come to call home.
While many shied away from having their picture taken, they later agreed – although none would give their name, for fear of retribution.
