Government facilitates return of Zimbabwean migrants

Government has facilitated the return of nearly 200 Zimbabwean nationals who had gathered at the Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg while awaiting assistance.

A total of 194 Zimbabwean nationals were processed and departed for Zimbabwe on Thursday, 10 September.

The group comprised 35 adult men, 58 adult women and 101 minors.

The development follows reports that the migrants had gathered at the consulate and were awaiting assistance to return to Zimbabwe.

In a separate process, 56 Nigerian nationals were also processed with the assistance of the Nigerian Embassy.

The Nigerian group comprised 18 adult men, 17 adult women and 21 minors.

Government said it was continuing to work with relevant authorities and stakeholders to facilitate an orderly repatriation and deportation process.

It said the process would be carried out safely and humanely, in accordance with applicable laws and established procedures.

The government’s intervention comes as authorities continue to manage the movement and return of foreign nationals requiring assistance to leave South Africa.

Deputy government spokesperson William Baloyi said the relevant authorities remained engaged to ensure the process was conducted in an orderly manner.