Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira and Mashudu Netsianda, Zimpapers Writers
GOVERNMENT will engage South African authorities over unpaid benefits and pensions for Zimbabwean returnees under the ongoing repatriation exercise being carried out by the leadership in Pretoria.
Speaking to journalists at a post-media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, said bilateral channels will be pursued to resolve the issue of unpaid benefits for returnees, most of whom left in a huff as some protest groups targeted foreigners in that country.
“Cabinet noted with concern the loss of employment benefits, pensions, and unpaid dues for the returnees, which matter will be pursued through bilateral arrangements,” said Dr Soda.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe weighed in, saying Government will pursue the issue using diplomatic means to assist the returnees, particularly those who were lawfully residing in that country.
”This is a bilateral arrangement between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Not every returnee was staying in South Africa illegally; they have told us that when they left, they were not yet paid their salaries and there is also the issue of benefits and pension which we will pursue,” said Minister Garwe.
Giving an update on the returnees, Dr Soda said the repatriation and re-integration of Zimbabwean nationals from South Africa continues with a total of 36 940 returnees having been repatriated through Government arrangements, while 79 730 have self-repatriated, bringing the total number of returnees to over 115 000.
“Additionally, a cumulative total of 870 self-repatriations was recorded through the Botswana entry points. 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,” said Dr Soda.
He said the Beitbridge Reception Centre Clinic had attended to 2 147 returnees, comprising 851 males, 1 296 females and 575 children under the age of 15.
“The most common conditions treated are upper-respiratory tract infections, diarrhoeal diseases and headaches. On logistics, 512 bus trips have been undertaken from the Beitbridge Reception Centre to various destinations in the country.
“More trucks are being mobilised for the transportation of household goods and business equipment,” said Dr Soda.
“Treasury has since released an additional US$2 million towards coordination of the repatriation exercise, bringing cumulative disbursements to US$3,4 million. The United Nations Agencies have mobilised approximately
US$564 000, while the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies provided US$264 000 for hygiene promotion and transport support.”
He said Government, working closely with Harare Metropolitan Province and other partners, was establishing a reception centre at an appropriate place in Harare to assist returnees directed to Harare.
Government has since set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee and a 24-hour Command Centre at Beitbridge Border
Post to facilitate smooth repatriation and reintegration of thousands of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.
President Mnangagwa is on record as saying all returning Zimbabweans will be received with open arms.
He also urged returnees to take part in Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to build, modernise, industrialise and develop the country, pursuant to the attainment of Vision 2030.
The President also commended community members along the transit route, including in Matabeleland South and
Masvingo Provinces, for demonstrating acts of kindness towards those going back to their countries of origin, including Malawi, saying the conduct aligns with the warm and hospitable character traits Zimbabweans are known for.
Recently, President Mnangagwa directed the Civil Registry Department to prioritise Zimbabweans returning from South Africa who require identity documents, as the Government steps up efforts to facilitate their smooth reintegration into society.
He also directed schools across the country to accommodate children returning with their families, ensuring that their education is not disrupted.
To ease the financial burden associated with relocation, Government has also introduced a special package of customs concessions under the immigrants’ rebate of duty scheme.
