Zimbabwe has brought back more than 115,000 citizens from South Africa. The Government is now expanding support programmes to help their reintegration.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda shared the update during Monday’s Post-Cabinet Press Briefing.
He said Cabinet reviewed a report from Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe. The report focused on ongoing repatriation and reintegration efforts.
Government arrangements facilitated the return of 36,940 people. Meanwhile, 79,730 nationals returned independently from South Africa.
Additionally, 870 people came back through Botswana entry points. These figures pushed total returns beyond the 115,000 mark.
Skills programme connects returnees with employers
The Government has introduced a skills registration programme for returning citizens. The initiative aims to identify available skills and create employment opportunities.
Dr Soda said the programme was already receiving attention from local businesses.
“A total of 38,057 returnees have registered through the Skills Registration Process, with some local companies expressing interest in utilising the skills data for their employment needs,” Dr Soda said.
However, Cabinet also raised concerns about lost employment benefits. Some returnees reportedly lost pensions and unpaid workplace earnings.
“The matter will be pursued through bilateral arrangements,” he said.
Meanwhile, health services at the Beitbridge Reception Centre continue assisting returnees. The facility has treated 2,147 people since the programme started.
The patients included 851 males, 1,296 females and 575 children below 15 years. The most common conditions included respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases and headaches.
Government expands transport and financial support
The Government has also increased logistical support for returning citizens. Dr Soda said 512 buses transported returnees from Beitbridge to different destinations.
Furthermore, authorities are mobilising extra trucks for household belongings and business equipment.
Treasury has provided an additional US$2 million for the repatriation programme. This brings total Government funding to US$3.4 million.
International organisations have also supported the initiative. United Nations agencies contributed about US$564,000 towards the programme.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies provided US$264,000. The funds will support hygiene awareness and transport assistance.
Dr Soda added that Government partners are developing a reception centre in Harare. The facility will support returnees heading to the capital.
The repatriation exercise is now moving beyond emergency assistance. Zimbabwe is building a wider reintegration system focused on skills, health and economic support.
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