Tiyani Hahlani
Centre News Hub
MASVINGO – The Community Action Group for Economic Development (CAG4ED) is providing humanitarian support to Zimbabweans deported from South Africa, offering food, clean water and assistance to help returnees continue their journeys to various parts of the country.
Many of the returnees arrive with no belongings or financial resources after being removed from South Africa, leaving them unable to afford transport or necessities.
Speaking to this publication, CAG4ED chairperson Regina Munyamani said the organisation intervened after identifying the struggles faced by deported nationals upon arrival.
“The first challenge that deported Zimbabweans face is financial instability. These individuals are forcefully removed from their place of residence before they are given a chance to sell their belongings or even get paid where they were working. As a result, many cannot afford transport back home or basic food,” she said.
Munyamani also said that CAG4ED is working with the Zimbabwean Consulate in South Africa to facilitate the repatriation process.
Returnees are first verified using identification documents such as passports, national identity cards or birth certificates before being assisted.
Upon arrival in Masvingo, beneficiaries are given a hot meal, clean drinking water and an opportunity to freshen up before continuing their journeys home.
“The Government is doing a great job by providing toiletries and food upon arrival at Beitbridge. However, people are travelling to destinations such as Harare, Gweru and Mutare. We realised there was a gap and established another food point in Masvingo so that returnees can continue their journeys in comfort and with dignity,” she said.
Munyamani said the initiative is designed to complement Government efforts rather than replace them.
She called for wider participation from organisations and communities in supporting returnees along major transit routes.
Munyamani also urged the creation of sustainable employment opportunities for returnees, saying many possess valuable skills acquired while working in South Africa.
“Most of the returnees are skilled and educated. What is needed beyond emergency assistance is job creation so that they can contribute to national development,” she said.
CAG4ED says coordinated support between Government, humanitarian organisations and communities remains essential as more Zimbabweans continue to return from South Africa.
