President Emmerson Mnangagwa has assured Zimbabweans returning from South Africa that the government has put in place comprehensive measures to ensure their seamless, safe and dignified reintegration as thousands continue to make their way back home.
Speaking during the burial of national hero Major General (Retired) Everisto Dzihwema, Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is ready to welcome every returning citizen with open arms.
“Our hands, therefore, are outstretched to receive all those coming back home. You are welcome. Tinokugamuchirai. Siyalamukela. Welcome home,” he said.
Government promises support for Zimbabweans returning from South Africa
The President said his administration had developed comprehensive plans to help returning Zimbabweans settle back into their communities and contribute to national development.
“I want to assure all our people returning from the Diaspora that our Zanu PF-led Government has put in place comprehensive plans for the seamless, safe, orderly and dignified re-integration,” he said.
Mnangagwa encouraged returnees to play an active role in Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and economic transformation under Vision 2030.
He said no Zimbabwean would be left behind, adding that every citizen had a role to play in building the country’s future.
Communities urged to help returning Zimbabweans
Mnangagwa called on traditional leaders, churches, families and local communities to assist returnees as they reintegrate into society.
He also appealed to businesses and development partners to support government efforts by providing resources to accelerate the repatriation of more Zimbabweans wishing to return home.
“Meanwhile, 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,” he said.
More than 58 000 Zimbabweans have returned home
According to figures released by the government, 11 065 Zimbabweans had been assisted through government-facilitated repatriation by last Thursday.
A further 47 703 people returned through self-repatriation, bringing the total number of Zimbabweans who have returned home to 58 768.
Of those repatriated by the government, 2 449 were adult men, 3 661 adult women, 2 407 boys and 2 540 girls, while eight were unaccompanied minors.
The President commended communities in Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces for showing kindness to people travelling back to their home countries, including Malawi.
He said the assistance demonstrated the compassion and hospitality for which Zimbabweans are known.
