Zimpapers Logo

Mashudu Netsianda in Beitbridge
THE first group of 555 Zimbabweans who fled xenophobic attacks in Durban, South Africa left Beitbridge last night for their respective homes. The group arrived on Monday night through Beitbridge border post from Durban on voluntary repatriation in six buses under the escort of officials from the Zimbabwean Embassy in South Africa.

They were ferried home in seven hired buses under the escort of International Organisation for Migration (IOM) officials. The victims who were scheduled to leave the centre in the afternoon were delayed due to the Zimra clearance processes.

The xenophobic victims were addressed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Services Ngoni Masoka shortly before their departure for home.

The highest number of returnees was from Harare and Zaka in Masvingo province and they were each allocated two buses.

The 555 people, comprising 171 females, 285 males and 99 children received food hampers, soap, sanitary pads and blankets that were donated by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority. “We would like to commend our people who fled the attacks in South Africa for their patience and resilience given what they went through. We wish them a safe journey as they travel to their homes and as government we will continue to render assistance,” said Masoka.

He said more victims of the xenophobic attacks were expected to arrive in the country during the course of the week.

The victims survived savage, senseless attacks that have rocked Durban and parts of Johannesburg.

The director for Civil Protection Unit Madzudzo Pawadyira said the government would continue to offer transport to ferry the victims to their homes.

Between 1,500 and 2, 000 Zimbabweans in Durban have volunteered to be repatriated in the wake of the attacks that started in Durban before spreading to Johannesburg.

Other organisations that have chipped in with assistance include UNICEF, Red Cross, Doctors without Borders (MSF) and IOM.