Story by Owen Mandovha
GOVERNMENT is accelerating the repatriation and reintegration of undocumented Zimbabweans affected by demonstrations in South Africa late last month, with private companies creating employment opportunities for returning citizens.
Local businesses are supporting the reintegration programme by recruiting returnees, including agricultural entrepreneur Mr Tapuwa Karonga, who has employed more than 10 Zimbabweans at Karlos Butchery in Kambuzuma and at his farm in Beatrice.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Shelter Zhou said returning home had given him the opportunity to apply skills acquired in South Africa.
“I was in South Africa for the last six years, where I worked on a farm and later in a butchery. I acquired skills but was affected by the latest demonstrations. I am happy to be back home working here at Karlos Butchery. I am with my family and excited to work in my country.”
Another employee, Mr Munyaradzai Gwaka said he responded to a recruitment advertisement after spending more than a decade in South Africa.
“I went to South Africa in 2010 and never came back home. I saw a post on Facebook by Karlos Meats inviting us to apply for jobs, and I am happy there are still opportunities back home.”
Mr Karonga said the initiative demonstrates that Zimbabwe offers meaningful employment opportunities.
“Zimbabwe has vast opportunities just like South Africa. I wanted to demonstrate that we can accommodate our own people and work together. These workers are proving to be experts in their fields.”
Meanwhile, retail chain Spar Zimbabwe, which is expanding its national footprint, has opened recruitment specifically targeting returning Zimbabweans with retail experience gained in South Africa.
Corporate Affairs Manager Mr Moses Chihuri said the company is processing more than 5 000 applications.
“We are currently expanding and looking for specialists in various areas. The response has been overwhelming, and we are screening applicants so they can become part of our family.”
The Ministry of Finance has also introduced flexible customs administration measures to enable affected businesses to import capital equipment into the country.
Government has urged returning Zimbabweans to take advantage of opportunities within the local economy and contribute to the country’s development as it pursues Vision 2030.
