Zimbabwe Repatriates 100,000 Citizens Fleeing South African Violence

The Government of Zimbabwe is scaling up repatriation and reintegration support for approximately 100,000 citizens fleeing anti-migrant hostilities and xenophobic violence in South Africa, particularly in Durban. Between May 28 and July 10, 99,418 citizens were assisted in returning home. Minister Zhemu Soda noted that more than 70 percent of these returnees are women and children.

To facilitate the movement, the government deployed 35 buses, while presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara pledged another 50 for those in Manicaland Province. Private sector support includes a US$1 million pledge from businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei. First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa also visited the Beitbridge Repatriation Centre on July 7 to donate food, blankets, and sanitary supplies to vulnerable families.

Processing centers have been established to manage the influx. In Bulawayo, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works created a one-stop service center in the Njube suburb providing medical care and documentation services. The Ministry of Health and Child Care reported providing healthcare to over 191,000 patients, including malnutrition screenings for 870 children. Complementing state efforts, the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations coordinated food and housing for returnees. The Border Management Committee has since intensified measures to expedite immigration clearance for transport vehicles at the Beitbridge Border Post.