Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
GOVERNMENT is upgrading internet connectivity at the Beitbridge Reception and Support Centre through the installation of Starlink services to improve the speed and efficiency of processing Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.
The enhanced connectivity is expected to support digital services, including the ongoing skills audit and registration of returnees, while enabling faster data capture and improving Government planning for reintegration programmes.
Speaking during an oversight visit to the centre by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo, on Thursday, Deputy Director for Skills Gaps in the Ministry of Skills Audit and Development (MOSAD), Ms Lesley Chakundura, said reliable, high-speed internet was critical to the centre’s operations.
“Some services require internet, and Starlink internet is already being installed following our request to the Government recently. The skills audit and registration process, among other digital services, require good internet,” said Ms Chakundura.
She said the initiative was made possible with the support of the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, who recently visited the area.
Ms Chakundura said the ministry also requires additional computers and tablets to speed up the capture and processing of returnee information.
Over the past few weeks, more than 15 000 returnees have undergone skills screening at the Beitbridge border post and reception centre.
However, limited internet connectivity and inadequate digital equipment forced officials to conduct the exercise manually.
She said Government was processing the information collected to support the integration of returnees and inform policy interventions.
“Government is processing all the information for the enhancement of integration and policy interventions to accommodate returnees from South Africa,” she said.
Figures presented during the visit showed that about 110 000 Zimbabweans have so far returned through the Beitbridge border post.
Of these, about 78 000 returned independently, while nearly 35 000 were assisted by Government.
Minister Moyo said strengthening digital infrastructure at border facilities was essential to ensure returning citizens were profiled, documented and assisted efficiently.
He said improved internet connectivity would facilitate real-time data capture, reduce processing backlogs and provide Government with accurate information for planning integration and support programmes for returnees.
