Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
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THE Civil Registry Department says it is fully prepared to assist returning Zimbabweans to replace lost or expired identity documents and acquire the necessary papers required for their reintegration into society.
The Registrar-General’s Office has confirmed that its officials are stationed at Beitbridge Border Post as part of an inter-ministerial committee overseeing the returnees programme.
The deployment of Civil Registry personnel is intended to ensure that returning citizens receive prompt assistance in obtaining identity documents needed to access essential services and opportunities as they resettle in their communities.
“The Civil Registry Department is part of the Inter-Ministerial Committee which is managing the issue of our citizens returning from South Africa. We are there at the receiving centre in Beitbridge, assessing and replacing documents,” said Registrar-General Mr Henry Machiri.
The availability of Civil Registry services at the reception centre is expected to ease the burden on returnees who may have lost documents during their stay in South Africa or whose identification papers have expired.
Addressing the 394th Ordinary Session of the Politburo in Harare on Friday, President Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to demonstrate true African values by warmly welcoming fellow citizens returning home.
The President’s remarks come as thousands of Zimbabweans based in neighbouring South Africa continue to return home seeking refuge following attacks and intimidation by vigilante groups in several cities and townships.
In response to the situation, the Government launched an emergency mass repatriation programme and is fully funding the transportation of affected Zimbabweans back home.
Already, thousands of returnees have been ferried into the country aboard buses provided by the State, while many others have made the journey back using their own resources.
Government has also activated comprehensive reintegration measures, including support services and duty waiver programmes, aimed at helping returnees settle back into their communities and rebuild their lives.
Officials say the provision of identity documents remains a critical component of the reintegration process as it enables returnees to access social services, education, healthcare and other Government programmes designed to support their resettlement.
derick.khumalo