The 10 Southern African countries, excluding South Africa, which are the subject of this article are at very different stages of transition from colonial to independent rule. Yet there are common problems which all these countries face. This article focuses upon two of these: migrant labour and skill shortages, particularly in the formal sector. It is argued that these problems may best be tackled by a combined approach which aims to reduce the present heavy dependence of individual countries on South Africa, and to exploit the complementary strengths and opportunities by other countries in the region.