The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, through the Department of Civil Protection, has intensified efforts to mobilise resources and strengthen partnerships with humanitarian organisations, development partners, churches, non-governmental organisations and the private sector to facilitate the safe and dignified return of Zimbabwean nationals currently gathered at various centres in South Africa following recent developments in the neighbouring country.
In a statement yesterday, the Ministry said it was working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to coordinate support for affected citizens and ensure their smooth return home.
“The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, through the Department of Civil Protection, is actively mobilizing support and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders from the private sector, humanitarian organizations, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and church organizations to assist in the repatriation of Zimbabwean nationals currently assembled at several centres in South Africa following recent developments in that country,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry said the coordinated intervention is aimed at facilitating the safe and dignified return of affected citizens back home.
“The coordinated support efforts by the Ministries of Local Government and Public Works and Foreign Affairs and International Trade are focused on facilitating the safe and dignified return of affected citizens back home. Assistance being mobilized includes food provisions, temporary shelter, and transportation from South Africa to designated reception centres in Zimbabwe,” the statement read.
Government has also activated financial support mechanisms to ensure the success of the humanitarian operation.
“In addition, Government, through the Emergency Fund, is also mobilizing resources to support and fund this important workstream as part of ongoing national humanitarian response efforts,” said the Ministry.
The Ministry added that a number of organisations have already joined the humanitarian response.
“To date, the Ministry has engaged more than five organizations that are already supporting this important humanitarian cause. We remain grateful for the assistance and solidarity demonstrated thus far by our partners and stakeholders,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry appealed for additional support from various sectors of society to strengthen ongoing efforts.
“The Ministry welcomes additional support from the private sector, humanitarian agencies, development partners, NGOs, church organizations, and all well-wishers to strengthen ongoing repatriation efforts and many other Civil Protection activities aimed at safeguarding communities and supporting vulnerable populations,” it said.
The Ministry further revealed that preparations have been made to receive returnees at ports of entry and facilitate their reintegration into communities.
“Relevant departments have been activated to receive returnees at the border and in communities for their integration back into the community. The response to this escalating situation requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
“We would like to sincerely appreciate all organizations and individuals who continue to stand with Government in responding to humanitarian needs and national emergencies,” the Ministry added.
Government of Zimbabwe, through the Department of Civil Protection and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, is coordinating efforts to support Zimbabwean nationals affected by recent developments in South Africa.
The repatriation programme forms part of national humanitarian response mechanisms designed to protect citizens in times of crisis and ensure their safe return and reintegration into society.
