Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE Government and its humanitarian partners are strengthening support for Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, with more than 108,000 nationals repatriated since May through a coordinated programme providing transport, healthcare and psychosocial assistance.
Beitbridge Border Post remains the main reception point for returnees, where Government agencies and development partners are offering essential services, including medical care, counselling and transport to final destinations.
Families of deceased returnees are also receiving assistance to ensure dignified burials.
“We lost our family member during these repatriations, and we are thankful because Government has helped us to collect the body from Musina to home, and more so, we were given groceries and a coffin to give our relative a dignified burial,” said Mr Caleb Mondiwa, a family representative of a deceased repatriate.
For many returnees, the reception centre has become the first point of reassurance upon arriving home.
“When I arrived here, my hope was renewed because I started to realise that Government has played a big part in making me safe,” said a returnee travelling to Rusape.
During a tour of the Beitbridge Reception Centre on Thursday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo said the collaborative approach was helping to safeguard the dignity and welfare of returning citizens.
“We reaffirm our commitment to make sure we promote the dignity of our people so that we ensure no one is left behind. Let us continue working together as we assist our brothers and sisters back home,” he said.
Humanitarian organisations operating at the border say they are working closely with Government to address the health needs of returnees.
“We are working hand in glove with Government through the Ministry of Health and Child Care to make sure that we assist the returnees with all their health issues, from medicine and other related health issues,” said Médecins Sans Frontières Nursing Activity Manager Elizabeth Karavina.
The ongoing repatriation programme reflects continued cooperation between Government and humanitarian partners to support Zimbabweans returning home.
According to this week’s Cabinet session, more than 108,000 Zimbabwean nationals have been repatriated from South Africa since May, with authorities continuing to provide humanitarian assistance and reintegration support through the Beitbridge Reception Centre.
