Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support

Source: Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support – herald We  publish here the 23rd post Cabinet media briefing presented by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, in Harare yesterday. Cabinet received an update report on the repatriation and reintegration of Zimbabwean nationals from the Republic of South Africa, which was presented […]

The post Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support – herald

We  publish here the 23rd post Cabinet media briefing presented by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, in Harare yesterday.

Cabinet received an update report on the repatriation and reintegration of Zimbabwean nationals from the Republic of South Africa, which was presented by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, as the Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Environment, Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Prevention and Management.

The nation is being informed that through collaborative efforts, the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Development Partners facilitated the return of 99 418 citizens between May 28 and July 10, 2026. More than 70 percent of the returnees are women and children. Government noted that the number of Zimbabwean nationals requiring repatriation and reintegration assistance has continued to increase, and measures have been put in place to meet the growing demand.

The timely efforts of Her Excellency the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa are noted, in particular her generous donation to the Beitbridge Repatriation Centre which she toured on July 7th, 2026. The donation included 30 tonnes of rice, 20 tonnes of mealie-meal, more than 5 000 track suits, 1 500 diapers and 1 500 units of sanitary wear material for women, which assisted greatly in the repatriation and reintegration initiatives underway. Government expresses appreciation for all citizens efforts to ensure seamless integration of returnees.

The nation is being further informed that other nationals from Malawi and Zambia arriving at Beitbridge are being assisted through their respective Embassies, with appropriate arrangements being put in place for assistance to be rendered to any other nationals facing challenges as they transit to their countries of origin.

Government is pleased to note that the Border Management Committee, incorporating the Department of Immigration, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, the Vehicle Inspection Department and Zimbabwe Borders has intensified measures to facilitate efficient immigration processes of all returnees, including through clearing of buses and trucks transporting returnees.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care, with its partners Medicines Sans Frontiers and the Higher Life Foundation is providing essential health care, with over 191 000 patients having been attended to and 870 children screened for malnutrition, while 15 cases of diarrhoea have been identified and treated.

Government assures the nation that efforts to render assistance to returning nationals will continue in order to ensure their smooth reintegration.

Meanwhile, the security services will continue to monitor illegal entries at undesignated points, especially in Beitbridge and Plumtree.

2.0 POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR PERFORMANCE REPORT: FIRST QUARTER 2026

Cabinet noted the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the First Quarter of 2026, which was presented by the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera.

The report, which focused on the performance of the Postal and Telecommunications sector during the quarter, highlighted key trends within the sector, growth prospects, emerging challenges and strategic interventions being implemented.

Information, communication, technologies and telecommunications remain central to the national digital transformation agenda under National development Strategy 2 (NDS2), the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, the National ICT Policy, and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030).

Regarding subscriptions and market penetration during the First Quarter, the sector recorded a 2,99 percent increase in active mobile subscriptions and a 1,5 percent increase in mobile penetration across all mobile platforms.

Zimbabwe continued to record significant internet/data traffic increase with a remarkable 57,28 percent, driven by accelerated LTE and 5G infrastructure deployment, increased smartphone adoption and use of modern applications including, TikTok, Instagram and Netflix.

The sector also reported trends including the following:

i. infrastructure modernisation and expansion, with an additional 13 new 5G base stations deployed, bringing the total to 379 bases, together with 161 LTE (Long Term Evolution), 85 3G and 68 2G new base stations. Government commends the efforts by all players in the sector, which are accelerating progress.

ii. gradual transition to data-centric services, while the fixed telephone line segment maintained a steady performance;

iii. The international connectivity band-width capacity increased by 4,03 percent to 1 756  770 Mbps;

iv. fiber network expansion from 4 046 km to a remarkable 8 500 km coverage. The total fibre backbone expanded by 33,83 percent, surpassing 19 000km;

v. strong growth in LEO ( Low Earth Orbit) subscriptions driven by Starlink is closing the connectivity gap in underserved and remote areas through the Presidential Internet Scheme;

vi. Postal and Courier Services has recorded a volume recovery during the Quarter, while continuing to face financial sustainability challenges;

vii. the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy 2026 -2030 is creating immediate and growing demand for high-capacity, low-latency connectivity; and

viii. the Postal and Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill 2025 is progressing through Parliamentary processes. The Bill is expected to strengthen the regulatory framework within the sector which is characterized by rapid technological and market evolution.

3.0 PROPOSED ZIMBABWE AFRICAN PEER REVIEW MECHANISM (APRM) NATIONAL PROGRAMME OF ACTION, AND PREPARATIONS FOR THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE APRM IN ZIMBABWE

Cabinet received and approved the memorandum on the Zimbabwe African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) National Programme of Action, and Preparations for the Official Launch of The APRM in Zimbabwe which was presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira, as he outlined the Development and implementation of the National Programme of Action.

His Excellency,  President Mnangagwa presented the Review Report on “Economic Governance and Management” at the 35th Ordinary Session of the APRM Forum.

The report identified practices for emulation by member States including: Transformative Leadership; Performance Contracting; Land Reform; Village Business Units under Rural development 8.0 Model; Innovation under Heritage Based Education 5.0; and Monetary Policy Revitalisation centred on the “Back -to-Basics” Approach.

Preparations are progressing well for the inaugural official launch of the APRM in Zimbabwe by His Excellency, Dr Mnangagwa on July 16, 2026.

This historic occasion will also be graced by His Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda and Chairperson of the African Peer Review Forum of Heads of State and Government, who shall be represented by Her Excellency, Major (Rtd) Jesssica Rose Epel Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda.

4.0 RADIATION PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026

Cabinet considered and approved the Radiation Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026 as presented by the Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation and Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The amendment of the Bill seeks to modernise the regulatory framework for radiation protection, safety and security in Zimbabwe. The Bill also seeks to address emerging technological advancements in both ionising and non-ionising radiation; to enhance national nuclear security, to establish financial sustainability mechanisms; and to align Zimbabwe with its international commitments under the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement.

5.0. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS CONCERNING COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF ARTS AND CULTURE

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of Belarus concerning Cooperation in the Field of Arts and Culture which was presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi, as the chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation.

The MoU seeks to strengthen cooperation in areas including joint exhibitions, seminars, workshops, exchange of experts on museums, folklore and films, protection and restoration of historical and cultural heritage festivals, visual arts traditional handicraft, music and dances.

6.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE STATE OF QATAR ON COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF YOUTH

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the State of Qatar on Cooperation in the Field of Youth, as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum will establish a framework for cooperation in the field of youth programmes including youth entrepreneurship, development of national youth policies, exchange of experiences, and related research, among others.

7.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA CONCERNING COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa concerning Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education and Training, as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum seeks to establish a legal framework for bilateral cooperation in the field of Higher Education and Training.

It will also broaden access to quality education through exchange programmes, joint research initiatives and fostering of institutional partnerships as well as mutual recognition of qualifications.

8.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA ON COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa on Cooperation in the Field of Arts, Culture and Heritage as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum seeks to promote, develop and increase cooperation in the field of arts, culture and heritage in accordance with the Parties’ relevant domestic laws.

The main areas of cooperation include conservation and restoration of archival documents; collaboration between the national archives and the national museums of each country; the prevention of cross-border trafficking; exchange of cultural property and cooperation on the Museum of African Liberation project located in Zimbabwe, including but not limited to the provision of historical artifacts from the Republic of South Africa’s liberation struggle for display in the Museum, and other related areas of mutual interest.

9.0 PROPOSED CO-HOSTING OF THE 2027 GLOBAL AFRICA WOMEN’s SUSTAINABLITY CONFERENCE: ZIMBABWE EDITION: VICTORIA FALLS

Cabinet considered and approved the Co-Hosting of the 2027 Global Africa Women’s Sustainability Conference: Zimbabwe Edition in Victoria Falls as presented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.

The Global Africa Women’s Sustainability Conference is hosted annually by ImpactHer, a Non-Governmental Organisation that promotes women empowerment globally.

The Zimbabwe Edition is designed to position the country and the Southern African region as a powerhouse for women-led sustainable enterprises, green innovation and cross-regional trade.

The Conference serves as a continental convening platform connecting the most dynamic voices in policy, investment and entrepreneurship to advance a shared vision whereby women are not just participants in the economy, but its architects.

The Conference provides an opportunity to showcase Zimbabwe’s entrepreneurial talent, cultural richness, tourism assets, and investment potential to a highly influential continental and global audience.

The Zimbabwe Edition will be held in Victoria Falls in 2027 under the theme “Reimagine, Reshape Rise: Women as Vanguards of Global Sustainable Future.”

10.0 PREPARATIONS FOR HOSTING THE 25TH COMESA HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT SUMMIT: 22 OCTOBER, 2026: HARARE

Cabinet considered and approved the Hosting of the 25th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government Summit on October 22, 2026 as presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira.

The objective of the Summit is to advance the principles of industrialisation, investment and regional economic integration.

The Summit will run under the theme “One Market One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialisation, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA,” and will be preceded by the COMESA Business Forum on October 20, 2026, followed by the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs on 21 October 2026.

11.0  PROPOSED HOSTING OF THE YOUTH CONNEKT AFRICA SUMMIT 2027

Cabinet considered and approved the bid for Zimbabwe to Host the Youth Connekt Africa Summit in 2027.

Youth Connekt Africa is a continental platform established to connect young people to economic opportunities, skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, financial inclusion, mentorship and policy                                                                                 dialogue.

The Summit provides a platform for showcasing innovation, sharing best practices, fostering partnerships and advancing youth development agendas.

The Summit will enhance Zimbabwe’s international image and strengthen diplomatic and development cooperation with African countries and development partners.

I THANK YOU!

The post Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Surge in internet, data traffic

Source: Surge in internet, data traffic – herald Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter MODERNISATION of telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of networks across Zimbabwe have driven significant growth in internet and data traffic during the first quarter of this year, Cabinet has noted. According to the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the first quarter, presented to […]

The post Surge in internet, data traffic appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Surge in internet, data traffic – herald

Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter

MODERNISATION of telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of networks across Zimbabwe have driven significant growth in internet and data traffic during the first quarter of this year, Cabinet has noted.

According to the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the first quarter, presented to Cabinet yesterday, internet and data traffic increased by 57,28 percent, largely driven by accelerated long-term evolution (LTE) and 5G infrastructure deployment along with increased smartphone ownership and use.

There was a 2,99 percent increase in active mobile subscriptions and a 1,5 percent rise in mobile penetration.

The report noted that 13 new 5G base stations were deployed during the quarter, bringing the national total to 379.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the information and communication technologies and telecommunications sector remained central to Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda under the National Development Strategy 2, the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, the National ICT Policy and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030).

“Zimbabwe continued to record significant internet and data traffic increase with a remarkable 57,28 percent, driven by accelerated LTE and 5G infrastructure deployment, increased smartphone adoption and use of modern applications including TikTok, Instagram and Netflix,” said the Minister.

“The sector also reported trends including the following: infrastructure modernisation and expansion, with an additional 13 new 5G base stations deployed, bringing the total to 379 bases, together with 161 LTE (Long Term Evolution), 85 3G and 68 2G new base stations.”

Minister Soda commended all players in the sector for accelerating progress and helping to close the connectivity gap, particularly in underserved areas.

He said the country’s fibre network had expanded significantly during the quarter under review.

The post Surge in internet, data traffic appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Zim to host COMESA Summit in October

Source: Zim to host COMESA Summit in October – herald Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter ZIMBABWE will assume the Chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa in October when it hosts the regional bloc’s 25th Heads of State and Government Summit aimed at promoting economic integration, industrialisation and investment. Speaking at a post-Cabinet media […]

The post Zim to host COMESA Summit in October appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Zim to host COMESA Summit in October – herald

Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter

ZIMBABWE will assume the Chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa in October when it hosts the regional bloc’s 25th Heads of State and Government Summit aimed at promoting economic integration, industrialisation and investment.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said Cabinet had approved the hosting of the summit, which will be held on October 22.

The summit will run under the theme, “One market one future: Advancing inclusive industrialisation, investment and regional integration in COMESA.”

It will be preceded by the COMESA Business Forum on October 20 and the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs on October 21.

“Cabinet considered and approved the hosting of the 25th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government Summit on 22 October 2026 as presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Prof Amon Murwira,” said Minister Soda.

“The objective of the Summit is to advance the principles of industrialisation, investment and regional economic integration.”

Zimbabwe will take over the chairmanship of the regional bloc from Kenya.

The hosting of the summit and assumption of the COMESA chairmanship comes soon after President Mnangagwa’s tenure as Chairperson of SADC, reflecting Zimbabwe’s growing role in regional and continental affairs.

COMESA, which was established more than three decades ago, is a regional economic community dedicated to promoting free trade, economic cooperation and sustainable development among its 21 member States.

The post Zim to host COMESA Summit in October appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

President, SA royalty rally for unity . . . ‘Visit affirms enduring cultural, historical ties’ 

Source: President, SA royalty rally for unity . . . ‘Visit affirms enduring cultural, historical ties’ – herald Debra Matabvu-Herald Reporter PRESIDENT Mnangagwa and South African traditional leaders yesterday reaffirmed the historic bonds between Harare and Pretoria, calling for peace and unity amid rising anti-immigrant tensions that have unsettled migrant communities in the neighbouring country. […]

The post President, SA royalty rally for unity . . . ‘Visit affirms enduring cultural, historical ties’  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: President, SA royalty rally for unity . . . ‘Visit affirms enduring cultural, historical ties’ – herald

Debra Matabvu-Herald Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa and South African traditional leaders yesterday reaffirmed the historic bonds between Harare and Pretoria, calling for peace and unity amid rising anti-immigrant tensions that have unsettled migrant communities in the neighbouring country.

The President hosted Zulu monarch King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and a high-level delegation of South African traditional leaders at State House in Harare, where the leaders underscored the role of traditional institutions in fostering peaceful co-existence, preserving shared cultural heritage and strengthening regional solidarity.

The official meeting followed a private engagement between President Mnangagwa and King Misuzulu on Monday, with yesterday’s discussions bringing together senior Government officials and members of the South African royal delegation.

Posting on his official X handle after the meeting, President Mnangagwa described the visit as an affirmation of the enduring cultural and historical bonds that unite Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“This morning, it was an honour and a privilege to welcome His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini of AmaZulu, along with his esteemed royal delegation and traditional leaders from South Africa, to State House in Harare.

“Our meeting reinforces the deep, historical, and unbreakable cultural bonds that unite the people of Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“Traditional leadership remains a cornerstone of our African identity, preserving our rich heritage and guiding our communities towards peace and unity.

“Zimbabwe continues to open its doors to our regional brothers and sisters as we strengthen these foundational ties.

“We look forward to continued collaboration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity between our nations.”

Speaking to journalists after yesterday’s meeting, Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa, said the discussions focused on how traditional leadership could contribute to addressing social and economic challenges that have fuelled anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa.

He said the recent tensions should not be viewed simply as hostility towards foreign nationals, but as symptoms of deeper structural economic problems inherited from apartheid.

“He came here with a very powerful delegation which also included King Ndamase of the AmaMpondo aseNyandeni Kingdom in South Africa.

“They are from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal,” said Amb Mutsvangwa.

“These are the areas where there has been some tension, some upswell of activity, weaponised poverty to get Africans to fight against each other and they felt that as kings they have a role to play and they respect President Mnangagwa as a regional leader, as a liberation fighter of standing, and they did not want their message to be filtered through third parties.”

He said the South African monarchs specifically requested a direct audience with President Mnangagwa.

“They requested for a personal audience with the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and they had a very successful meeting with the President.

“It is the second meeting in as many days. Yesterday (Monday) it was private, this morning it was official.

“The President called in his ministers and his court to come to listen to the King and this afternoon he is going to host them at a luncheon before they go back to South Africa.”

Amb Mutsvangwa said the meeting explored how traditional institutions could complement Government efforts in promoting regional peace, economic development and labour mobility.

“All in all, it was a very cordial meeting, mapping the future of the two countries together and also to see how historical and traditional structures can come to play as we grapple with post-colonial challenges which come from our apartheid and racist past.

“We see it as a challenge of development and they also delved into how the two countries and the two kingdoms can co-operate with Zimbabwe so that we can have more organised labour movement, more job opportunities so people can stay where they should be and where labour can move without the challenges of competing for scarce employment opportunities.”

Prime Minister to King Misuzulu, Mr Phathisizwe Chiliza, said the delegation’s visit was intended to strengthen peace and harmony between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“We want to thank the President of Zimbabwe and his delegation because as the delegation and the Ministers have said, we are here to make sure that there is peace, there is harmony between these nations,” he said.

“That is what we are here for, to support the King, to make sure that the dream of the King is a success.”

King Ndamase, who chairs the King’s Forum of South Africa, said the discussions had strengthened relations between traditional leaders in the two countries.

“We had a warm welcome from the President,” he said.

“Therefore, I think that from now onwards, the bond on traditional leadership of this nation and the traditional leadership of South Africa will make peace and harmony within the African continent.”

The visit came at a particularly difficult time for the region following renewed anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, where some groups have blamed undocumented foreign nationals for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.

The demonstrations have caused anxiety among migrant communities, including Zimbabweans, who constitute a significant portion of foreign nationals living in South Africa.

In recent weeks, the Government has also facilitated the voluntary return of some Zimbabwean nationals amid concerns over their safety.

The post President, SA royalty rally for unity . . . ‘Visit affirms enduring cultural, historical ties’  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Govt-led repatriation programme benefits 100k

Source: Govt-led repatriation programme benefits 100k – herald Mukudzei Chingwere-Senior Reporter A MASSIVE Government-led repatriation and reintegration programme has assisted nearly 100 000 Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, as authorities intensify efforts to cushion citizens affected by anti-migrant unrest and growing hostility towards foreigners in parts of the neighbouring country. Latest figures presented to Cabinet […]

The post Govt-led repatriation programme benefits 100k appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Govt-led repatriation programme benefits 100k – herald

Mukudzei Chingwere-Senior Reporter

A MASSIVE Government-led repatriation and reintegration programme has assisted nearly 100 000 Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, as authorities intensify efforts to cushion citizens affected by anti-migrant unrest and growing hostility towards foreigners in parts of the neighbouring country.

Latest figures presented to Cabinet yesterday show that 99 418 citizens were assisted to return home between May 28 and July 10, making it one of the largest co-ordinated repatriation exercises undertaken by Government in recent years.

The returnees have been arriving through Beitbridge Border Post amid ongoing anti-migrant protests, vigilante actions and unofficial campaigns targeting foreigners in parts of South Africa.

Speaking after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said Government, working through an Inter-Ministerial Committee and development partners, had significantly scaled up support systems to cater for the increasing number of returnees.

“The nation is being informed that through collaborative efforts, the Inter-Ministerial Committee and development partners facilitated the return of 99 418 citizens between 28 May and 10 July, 2026,” said Minister Soda.

“More than 70 percent of the returnees are women and children. Government noted that the number of Zimbabwean nationals requiring repatriation and reintegration assistance has continued to increase, and measures have been put in place to meet the growing demand.

“The nation is being further informed that other nationals from Malawi and Zambia arriving at Beitbridge are being assisted through their respective embassies, with appropriate arrangements being put in place for assistance to be rendered to any other nationals facing challenges as they transit to their countries of origin.”

He said Government was pleased to note that the Border Management Committee, incorporating the Department of Immigration, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, the Vehicle Inspection Department and Zimbabwe Borders, has intensified measures to facilitate efficient immigration processes of all returnees, including through clearing of buses and trucks transporting returnees.

The repatriation programme has involved multiple Government ministries, the Zimbabwean Embassy and consulates in South Africa, international organisations and local humanitarian agencies.

In recent weeks, Government has deployed buses to ferry returnees from reception centres in South Africa and Beitbridge to their destinations across the country.

Private sector players and charitable organisations have also assisted with transport, food supplies and other relief materials.

Reception centres established at Beitbridge have been providing temporary shelter, meals, medical assistance and psychosocial support, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

Health authorities have also strengthened disease surveillance and emergency healthcare services to ensure the safe reintegration of returnees.

Minister Soda said the Ministry of Health and Child Care and its partners continued to provide critical health services.

“The Ministry of Health and Child Care, with its partners Medicines Sans Frontiers and the Higher Life Foundation, is providing essential health care, with over 191 000 patients having been attended to and 870 children screened for malnutrition, while 15 cases of diarrhoea have been identified and treated,” he said.

Minister Soda assured the nation that efforts to render assistance to returning nationals will continue in order to ensure their smooth reintegration.

“Meanwhile, the security services will continue to monitor illegal entries at undesignated points, especially in Beitbridge and Plumtree.”

Cabinet also noted the support extended by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, who recently donated foodstuffs and other essential supplies to assist returning Zimbabweans.

“The timely efforts of Her Excellency, the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa are noted, in particular her generous donation to the Beitbridge Repatriation Centre, which she toured on 7th July, 2026.

“The donation included 30 tonnes of rice, 20 tonnes of mealie-meal, more than 5 000 track suits, 1 500 diapers and 1 500 units of sanitary wear material for women, which assisted greatly in the repatriation and reintegration initiatives underway.

“Government expresses appreciation for all citizens efforts to ensure seamless integration of returnees,” Minister Soda said.

At the start of the repatriation exercise, Government introduced a range of reintegration measures aimed at helping returnees rebuild their lives, including easing the importation of personal and household effects, facilitating access to social services and linking families to community support structures.

Officials say the interventions are guided by the Second Republic’s commitment to protecting citizens wherever they may be and ensuring that no Zimbabwean returning home is left without assistance.

As the situation in South Africa continues to evolve, authorities say contingency plans remain in place to accommodate additional returnees while maintaining efficient border management, humanitarian support and national security systems.

The post Govt-led repatriation programme benefits 100k appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.