Online Reporter
Herald Correspondent
Government has intensified efforts to facilitate safe, orderly and dignified return of Zimbabwean nationals currently gathered at various distress centres in South Africa following recent targeting of foreign nationals in that country.
In an interview, Ministry of Local Government and Public Works Director for Advocacy and Communications, Gabriel Masvora, said the Department of Civil Protection has upped its collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, private sector players as well as humanitarian organisations, to coordinate repatriation efforts.
“The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, through 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 currently assembled at several centres in South Africa following recent developments in that country,” he said.
“. . . Assistance being mobilised includes food provisions, temporary shelter, and transportation from South Africa to designated reception centres in Zimbabwe.”
He added that Government is also using the Emergency Fund to support the operation and has activated relevant departments at border posts and within communities to assist returnees and support their reintegration.
The Ministry, he also added, welcomes additional support from the private sector, humanitarian agencies, development partners, NGOs, church organisations, and all well-wishers to strengthen ongoing repatriation
In the past few weeks, government has assisted over 1,200 Zimbabweans return.
