Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
THE Government is enhancing internet connectivity at the Beitbridge Reception and Support Centre to improve the efficiency of services offered to Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.
The move will facilitate faster processing of returnees through improved digital systems used for skills auditing, profiling, registration and other essential services.
Providing an update during an oversight visit to the centre by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo, on Thursday, Deputy Director for Skills Gaps in the Ministry of Skills Audit and Development (MOSAD), Ms Lesley Chakundura, said the installation of Starlink internet was already underway following a request made to Government.
She said the improved connectivity would enhance the ministry’s ability to conduct skills audits and capture returnee information more efficiently.
“Some services require internet, and Starlink internet is already being installed following our request to the Government recently. The skills audit and registration process, among other digital services, require good internet,” said Ms Chakundura.
She said the initiative received support from the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, who recently visited the area and facilitated efforts to improve digital infrastructure at the centre.
Ms Chakundura said her department also requires additional computers and tablets to speed up the collection and processing of information.
Over the past few weeks, more than 15 000 returnees have undergone skills screening at Beitbridge Border Post and the Reception and Support Centre. Owing to limited internet connectivity and inadequate digital equipment, much of the exercise had to be conducted manually.
“Government is processing all the information for the enhancement of integration and policy interventions to accommodate returnees from South Africa,” she said.
Figures presented during the visit showed that about 110 000 Zimbabweans have entered the country through Beitbridge in recent weeks. Of these, approximately 78 000 returned independently, while close to 35 000 were assisted under the Government’s organised repatriation programme.
Speaking during the visit, Minister Moyo said strengthening digital infrastructure at border facilities was essential to improve service delivery and support evidence-based planning.
He said reliable internet connectivity would enable real-time data capture, reduce processing backlogs and enhance Government’s capacity to develop effective reintegration programmes for returning citizens.
The digital upgrades form part of wider Government efforts to modernise operations at the Reception and Support Centre and ensure returnees receive timely, efficient and dignified support upon their arrival in the country.
