Online Reporter
Zimpapers Politics Hub
The Zimbabwean Government has announced that all screening and profiling of citizens returning from South Africa will now be conducted at the Beitbridge Border Post, a move aimed at speeding up the repatriation process and ensuring the security of returnees.
This was revealed by Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr George Charamba, in an update on the ongoing repatriation of Zimbabweans from South Africa.
Mr Charamba provided the latest figures on the repatriation effort, stating, “To date, some 3,624 Zimbabweans are now back home and re-integrated into various communities or origin. This is as of Friday last week. More will be on the way once processed by South African authorities.”
Following discussions between the two countries’ authorities, Mr Charamba confirmed a significant change in the processing procedure. “Following discussions between the two country-authorities, it has now been agreed that screening/profiling will take place at the Beitbridge Border Post,” he said. He added that “This assists with pace and the security of returnees.”
In a measure to ease the financial burden on returning citizens, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has been instructed to assist returnees with their household goods. “ZIMRA has been instructed to lift all taxes on household goods for returnees,” Mr Charamba announced.
Transport has been provided to ensure Zimbabweans are taken home once processes are completed at the border. “Buses have been available to ensure Zimbabweans are taken home once processes are completed,” the Deputy Chief Secretary confirmed.
Mr Charamba emphasised that President Mnangagwa’s message to all Zimbabweans abroad is that they are welcome to return home.
“His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, continues to impress on us to broadcast the message that all Zimbabweans in South Africa or any other country have a right of return, and will be welcome and re-integrated upon arrival. They are nationals of this land which is their home by right.”
This move comes as authorities have been working to address the pace of repatriation. Mr Charamba previously clarified that delays were not due to a lack of preparedness on Harare’s part but because of mandatory profiling requirements by South African authorities.
