Over 115 000 Zimbabweans have returned home following instability against illegal immigrants in South Africa.
The repatriation and re-integration of Zimbabwean nationals from South Africa continues, with a total of 36 940 returnees having been repatriated through Government arrangements, while 79 730 have self-repatriated, bringing the total number of returnees to over 115 000. Additionally, a cumulative total of 870 self-repatriations was recorded through the Botswana entry points.
Speaking during this Tuesday’s Post-cabinet media briefing, Information Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said a total of 38 057 returnees have registered through the Skills Registration Process, with some local companies expressing interest in utilising the skills data for their employment needs.
“Cabinet noted with concern the loss of employment benefits, pensions, and unpaid dues for the returnees, which matter will be pursued through bilateral arrangements.
“The Beitbridge Reception Centre Clinic has attended to 2 147 returnees, comprising 851 males, 1 296 females and 575 children under the age of 15.
“The most common conditions treated are upper-respiratory tract infections, diarrhoeal diseases and headaches.
“On logistics, 512 bus trips have been undertaken from the Beitbridge Reception Centre to various destinations in the country.
“More trucks are being mobilised for the transportation of household goods and business equipment.
“Treasury has since released an additional US$2 million towards coordination of the repatriation exercise, bringing cumulative disbursements to US$3.4 million.
“The United Nations Agencies have mobilised approximately US$564 000, while the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies provided US$264 000 for hygiene promotion and transport support.
“Government, working closely with Harare Metropolitan Province and other partners, is establishing a reception centre at an appropriate place in Harare to assist returnees directed to Harare.”
