Seventy-four Zimbabweans repatriated by the Government through the country’s Embassy in South Africa arrived at Beitbridge Border Post yesterday after fleeing xenophobic violence in Mossel Bay, located in South Africa’s Western Cape Province.
The group arrived aboard a bus and was welcomed by officials from the Department of Social Development, Immigration authorities and other border agencies.
Government officials said the returnees would undergo counselling and receive social support services before being assisted with transport to their respective destinations across the country.
“The returnees will be assessed and provided with psychosocial support, food assistance and transport to facilitate their reintegration into their families and communities,” said officials from the Department of Social Development.
The repatriation follows a surge in protests and attacks targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa. Mossel Bay is among the areas that have recently experienced incidents of violence against migrants, prompting concerns over the safety of foreign communities.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Embassy in South Africa has urged citizens living in the neighbouring country to exercise caution amid continuing unrest and attacks on migrants in various provinces.
“We urge Zimbabwean nationals to remain vigilant, avoid areas affected by protests, carry valid identification documents at all times and promptly report any threats or incidents to local law enforcement agencies or the nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic mission,” said the Embassy in a safety advisory.
Beitbridge Border Post, Zimbabwe’s busiest inland port and a key gateway along the North-South Corridor, has previously received groups of returnees during periods of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
“The Government remains committed to assisting Zimbabwean citizens affected by unrest while abroad and ensuring their safe return home when necessary,” said the Embassy.
Last week, South Africa activated its National Joint Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) in response to violent protests that have reportedly resulted in deaths, injuries and the displacement of migrants in some parts of the country.
