Source: Over 139 Zimbabweans return from SA, as Govt deploys more buses – herald
Joseph Madzimure
Zimpapers Politics Hub
Over 139 Zimbabwean nationals have been repatriated through the Beitbridge Border Post after fleeing xenophobic attacks targeting migrants living and working in South Africa, while more than 160 others have registered to return home.
THE Government has set aside buses to repatriate Zimbabwean citizens from South Africa before June 30, following xenophobic threats targeting foreign nationals.
In an interview, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade’s Director of Public Diplomacy, Communication and Advocacy, Mrs Philisiwe Chidawanyika, said Zimbabwean embassy offices in Pretoria and Cape Town are compiling lists of citizens willing to be repatriated.
“Over 160 Zimbabwean citizens are registered for repatriation from South Africa. These people will be ferried by buses either today or tomorrow to ensure their safe travel back home,” said Mrs Chidawanyika.
“Our embassy is working on processing the necessary profiling so that they can allocate the required buses. Our embassy in Pretoria and Cape Town are profiling many people willing to come back home. Our embassies will remain open to assist our citizens.”
She said the Government has allocated enough buses to ferry citizens from the neighbouring country.
“Two buses have already crossed over. More are expected, and the number of buses will be determined as more Zimbabweans approach the embassy and consulates for assistance,” she added.
Mrs Chidawanyika urged those willing to return home to communicate with the embassy to facilitate their safe travel.
She further stated that the Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and its embassies, remains committed to promoting and protecting the welfare of Zimbabweans living abroad, as guided by Section 35 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
“Our embassies in the region are in contact with Zimbabweans who have registered their presence and are ready to assist with repatriation should this be deemed necessary.
“Zimbabweans living abroad continue to be urged to register their presence with the nearest embassy or consulate of Zimbabwe to facilitate communication and timely sharing of important information,” she emphasised.
Embassy officials in South Africa are continuing to document and assist Zimbabweans seeking voluntary repatriation amid growing safety concerns.
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