Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
LOCAL Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has signed a joint resource mobilisation plan with the United Nations in Beitbridge.
The signing took place on Thursday during a visit to the Beitbridge Reception and Support Centre.
The UN was represented by the Resident Coordinator to Zimbabwe, Dr Rosemary Kalapurakal.
The plan is meant to help the Government and the UN mobilise resources for the repatriation, reception and reintegration of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.
Since 28 May, the Government has repatriated more than 33 000 Zimbabweans through Beitbridge.
An additional 70 000 returned independently through the same border. The numbers have gone up due to ongoing anti-migration protests in South Africa.
Speaking at the centre, Dr Kalapurakal said she was impressed by the progress made so far.
“I am impressed with the process and the coordination by the Government of Zimbabwe,” she said.
“The reception centre is working well. Returnees are being received with dignity and given basic support.”
She said the UN remains committed to working with the government to ensure that returnees get food, health services, transport and psychosocial support.
Minister Garwe said the joint plan will help both the government and development partners to raise funds and respond faster.
“This plan gives us a clear roadmap,” Minister Garwe said. “It will help us mobilise resources for screening, documentation, medical checks and reintegration of our people.”
He commended all partners who have been supporting the process since it started. He mentioned UN agencies, NGOs, the private sector and community groups.
“Our people are coming back under difficult circumstances. We have a duty to receive them, support them and help them restart their lives,” he said.
The Beitbridge Reception and Support Centre has been operating 24 hours. Returnees are screened, given meals, medical checks and transport to their home areas.
He said the new plan will also focus on long-term support.
This includes skills training, access to grants and linking returnees to local economic opportunities.
Minister Garwe said the Government would continue working with partners to ensure safe and orderly movement.
The signing of the plan was expected to unlock more support from UN agencies and donors in the coming months.
