By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
The Government of Zimbabwe has activated a coordinated humanitarian response to facilitate the safe and dignified repatriation of Zimbabwean nationals currently assembled at several centres in South Africa following recent developments in that country.
The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, through the Department of Civil Protection, is leading the mobilisation of support in partnership with private sector players, humanitarian organisations, development partners, non-governmental organisations, and church groups.
Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, the response effort is focused on ensuring affected citizens return home safely.
Assistance being mobilised includes food provisions, temporary shelter, and transport from South Africa to designated reception centres in Zimbabwe.
Government has also tapped into the Emergency Fund to support the workstream as part of broader national humanitarian response efforts.
To date, more than five organisations have already come on board to support the repatriation exercise. The Ministry expressed gratitude for the assistance and solidarity shown thus far.
“We welcome additional support from the private sector, humanitarian agencies, development partners, NGOs, church organisations, and all well-wishers to strengthen ongoing repatriation efforts and other Civil Protection activities aimed at safeguarding communities and supporting vulnerable populations,” the Ministry said in a statement.
Relevant government departments have been activated to receive returnees at the border and in communities, where integration support will be provided.
The Ministry emphasised that the escalating situation demands a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, and extended sincere appreciation to all organisations and individuals standing with Government in responding to humanitarian needs and national emergencies.
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