Online Reporter
Obey Sibanda
FOR many Zimbabweans returning home from South Africa, crossing the border marks the end of one journey but the beginning of another.
With little money, no jobs and families to support, many returnees face an uncertain future as they struggle to rebuild their lives.
In Gwanda North, Zanu-PF member Cde Lungisani Ncube has introduced what he describes as a “safe landing” initiative aimed at helping vulnerable repatriated residents rebuild their lives through sustainable livelihood opportunities.
“Repatriation is not the end of the road for our people. It is the beginning of a new fight, where someone still needs food, direction and a way to earn a living,” said Cde Ncube.
He said while Government continues coordinating the nationwide repatriation programme, communities also have a responsibility to support those returning home through practical empowerment initiatives.
“Government cannot absorb everyone into jobs overnight. We must create opportunities that allow vulnerable people to survive, work and rebuild their lives,” he said.
Under the initiative, returnees from Gwanda North are being linked to income-generating opportunities through Cde Ncube’s mining projects and other community-based empowerment programmes. The programme seeks to help beneficiaries attain financial independence rather than rely solely on short-term assistance.
Cde Ncube warned that failing to support vulnerable returnees could have far-reaching social consequences.
“If we leave people with no income or hope, the effects go beyond the individual. Supporting vulnerable families helps reduce the risk of crime, drug abuse, prostitution and other social challenges while restoring dignity and stability,” he said.
The initiative builds on Cde Ncube’s previous empowerment programmes in the constituency, which have included the donation of hammer mills to youth and women’s groups to create sustainable sources of income.
“I have always believed that genuine assistance is the kind that puts food on the table and gives people the means to stand on their own. Those returning from South Africa deserve that opportunity too,” he said.
Matabeleland South Provincial Secretary for Economic Affairs, Cde Darlington Ndlovu, said although the repatriation programme is being spearheaded by Government, helping returnees successfully reintegrate into their communities requires collective effort.
“Initiatives such as this provide hope to vulnerable families and strengthen communities by helping people become self-reliant again,” he said.
The intervention comes as Zimbabwe continues to receive citizens returning from South Africa following recent anti-migrant unrest.
Government has intensified efforts to support the reintegration of returning Zimbabweans through a comprehensive framework that includes reception, documentation, social protection and livelihood support. Authorities at Beitbridge Border Post continue facilitating the safe entry of returnees and other travellers while working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the smooth reintegration of returning citizens.
