Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to facilitate the safe return of Zimbabweans assembled at various centres in South Africa following a wave of xenophobic protests and vigilante attacks against African migrants.
Authorities are mobilising resources and engaging stakeholders to support the humanitarian operation.
In a statement, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works said the repatriation exercise was being coordinated through the Department of Civil Protection in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
The Ministry said support being mobilised includes food assistance, temporary shelter and transportation for affected citizens from South Africa to designated reception centres in Zimbabwe.
The Department of Civil Protection, is actively mobilising support and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders from the private sector, humanitarian organisations, development partners, non-governmental organisations and church organisations to assist in the repatriation of Zimbabwean nationals.
Government has also activated the Emergency Fund to support the repatriation programme as part of ongoing national humanitarian response efforts.
The Ministry said more than five organisations had already been engaged and were supporting the initiative.
“To date, the Ministry has engaged more than five organisations that are already supporting this important humanitarian cause,” read the statement.
“We remain grateful for the assistance and solidarity demonstrated thus far by our partners and stakeholders.”
Authorities have since activated relevant departments to receive returnees at border posts and facilitate their reintegration into communities.
“Relevant departments have been activated to receive returnees at the border and at communities for their integration back into the community,” read the statement.
The Ministry appealed for additional support from the private sector, humanitarian agencies, development partners, non-governmental organisations, church groups and individuals to strengthen the repatriation exercise and other civil protection interventions.
It said the evolving situation required a coordinated response involving Government, communities and development partners.
“The response to this escalating situation requires a whole-of-Government and whole-of-society approach,” read the statement.
Government also expressed appreciation to organisations and individuals that have partnered authorities in responding to humanitarian needs and national emergencies.
The repatriation programme is expected to ensure that affected Zimbabweans return home safely and access support services upon arrival as Government continues to coordinate humanitarian assistance through relevant departments and stakeholders.
