Chronicle Editor
Tanyaradzwa Rusike
THE recently launched National Migration Policy will address challenges faced by the elderly and persons with disabilities during migration.
According to the Department of Immigration, the policy seeks to facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people through the implementation of well-planned and well-managed policies.
It will address key migration management aspects that include migration governance, labour migration, diaspora engagement, border governance, forced displacements, internal migration and trade.
Department of Immigration chief director Mrs Respect Gono said the policy will ensure portability of social security for elderly migrants and persons with disabilities.
“The policy is going to ensure that the rights and needs of older persons are met throughout the migration process and recognise the individual needs and challenges faced by older women and men migrating, and those who are left behind.
“It will also establish infrastructures at ports of entry, exit and migrant reception, as well as support centres that are sensitive to the needs of persons with disabilities,” she said.
Mrs Gono said the Department of Immigration will promote access to affordable healthcare and social integration for immigrants.
“We will make sure we provide health social facilities for elderly migrants, and mainstream the rights of migrants with disabilities in immigration management,” she said.
Government promulgated the Older Persons Act (Chapter 17:11) to cater for elderly migrants through the whole process, including interim care, family tracing and subsequent reunification in the country of origin.
In September 2013, Zimbabwe ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in order to enhance the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
Added Mrs Gono: “The National Migration Policy opens or widens policies. We now have tailor-made visas and permits, especially the dependent visa, which allows foreigners to bring in their parents.
“For instance, the Chinese are usually the only child, and when their parents are so old that they cannot assist themselves, they are forced to bring them here, and stay with them.”
Online Reporter