Zimbabwe has brought back more than 115,000 citizens from South Africa as authorities expand support programmes for returnees.
The Government is now focusing on reintegration through funding, transport assistance and skills development initiatives.
Government expands support for returning citizens
During the Twenty-Fifth Post-Cabinet Press Briefing, Information Minister Dr Zhemu Soda provided an update on the programme.
He said Cabinet had received a report from Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe.
The report covered ongoing efforts to repatriate and assist Zimbabweans returning from South Africa.
According to Dr Soda, 36,940 people returned through Government-supported arrangements.
Meanwhile, 79,730 citizens came back independently, increasing the total figure beyond 115,000.
Additionally, authorities recorded 870 self-repatriations through Botswana border entry points.
The Government has also introduced a skills registration programme to support employment opportunities.
Dr Soda said the initiative had already gained attention from local businesses.
“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,” Dr Soda said.
However, some returnees face challenges involving lost jobs, pensions and outstanding employment benefits.
Dr Soda said authorities would address these concerns through discussions with South African officials.
“The matter will be pursued through bilateral arrangements,” he said.
Transport and funding boost reintegration efforts
Meanwhile, health services at the Beitbridge Reception Centre continue supporting returning citizens.
The facility has treated 2,147 returnees since the programme began.
This figure includes 851 males, 1,296 females and 575 children below 15 years.
The most common medical cases involved respiratory infections, diarrhoeal illnesses and headaches.
Furthermore, the Government has strengthened transport support for returnees.
Authorities have completed 512 bus trips from Beitbridge to various destinations nationwide.
Additional trucks are also being arranged to move household goods and business equipment.
Treasury has released another US$2 million towards the repatriation programme.
This brings total Government funding for the exercise to US$3.4 million.
International partners have also contributed financial assistance.
United Nations agencies provided about US$564,000, while the Red Cross contributed US$264,000.
The funds are supporting hygiene promotion and transport services.
Moreover, Government is working with partners to establish a reception centre in Harare.
The facility will assist returnees travelling to the capital.
The latest developments show a shift from emergency support towards long-term reintegration.
The programme now focuses on employment, healthcare and sustainable assistance for returning Zimbabweans.