The Government says the return of Zimbabweans from South Africa presents an opportunity to strengthen the country’s economy, rebuild communities and harness skills acquired abroad, as authorities intensify efforts to support returnees.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appealed to the private sector, development partners and well-wishers to support Government’s reintegration programme, saying Zimbabwe is ready to welcome its citizens back home.
“I invite the private sector and well-wishers to donate and partner with Government to accelerate the repatriation of many more of our people back home… Our hands are outstretched to receive all those coming back home. You are welcome… Let us continue to build, modernise, industrialise and develop our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe together.”
The President’s remarks come as anti-immigration sentiment and tighter enforcement measures in South Africa have prompted thousands of Zimbabweans to return home through Beitbridge Border Post.
Speaking on the Government’s reintegration strategy, Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Edgar Moyo said the movement of people back into Zimbabwe should not be viewed solely as a humanitarian challenge but also as an economic opportunity.
Moyo said increased population movement into Zimbabwe would stimulate economic activity, while countries losing workers could experience reduced productivity.
He said Government’s priority is to ensure returnees are successfully reintegrated into society.
The Minister said social protection services are already being mobilised to assist vulnerable returnees, including children who grew up outside Zimbabwe and families requiring psychosocial support.
Moyo said Government is also strengthening family reunification services to help reconnect returnees with relatives, while temporary accommodation, food assistance and other welfare support will be provided to those with nowhere to stay.
The reintegration programme is being coordinated through an inter-ministerial taskforce operating at Beitbridge Border Post, where officials are processing returnees and linking them with social welfare services.
Government has also announced special customs concessions for eligible returnees, including duty rebates on selected personal effects and provisions allowing qualifying Zimbabweans to import one vehicle under specified conditions.
