Entumbane-Njube legislator Prince Dube has commended churches and government agencies for providing emergency assistance to thousands of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa amid escalating anti-migrant protests and xenophobic violence.
However, he warned that many of the returnees now face an uncertain future as they attempt to rebuild their lives in an economy characterised by high unemployment and limited job opportunities.
Dube said many Zimbabweans fled South Africa with little or no notice, forcing them to abandon homes, businesses and personal belongings.
“Some left without their possessions, some are on medication and there are schoolchildren among them. We appreciate everyone working to ensure they are treated with dignity as they return home,” he said.
South Africa has witnessed a surge in anti-migrant demonstrations in recent weeks, with foreign nationals, particularly Zimbabweans, among those most affected.
Civil society organisations say many families fled overnight after vigilante groups allegedly targeted foreign-owned businesses and residential areas.
Among those arriving through Beitbridge Border Post are vulnerable groups, including chronically ill patients whose treatment has been disrupted and children forced to abandon their schooling.
While churches and humanitarian organisations have stepped in with food, temporary shelter and other emergency support, concerns are mounting over the long-term reintegration of the returnees, with Zimbabwe’s struggling economy offering few employment or income-generating opportunities.
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