Thousands of Zimbabweans are reportedly gathered at the Zimbabwean Consulate in District Six, Cape Town, awaiting transportation to a repatriation centre amid heightened anxiety among migrant communities.
While the South African government has not ordered foreign nationals to leave the country, pressure from anti-immigration activists has contributed to uncertainty among some Zimbabweans, prompting many to seek assistance from diplomatic authorities.
A message circulating within the Zimbabwean community in Cape Town indicates that growing numbers of displaced Zimbabweans from across the Western Cape are making their way to the consulate in search of shelter and assistance while awaiting transportation home.
According to the appeal, officials at the Zimbabwean Consulate and South African immigration authorities are “working tirelessly” to process those seeking repatriation.
Several humanitarian organisations have reportedly stepped in to provide daily food and sanitary supplies, including Gift of the Givers, Hakuna Matata, Reach SA Agape Empowerment, and Zororo-Phumulani Funeral Plan, alongside members of the Zimbabwean community leadership.
Community organisers are appealing for additional support, saying the number of people requiring assistance continues to increase.
Items being requested include warm food, tea, fruit, drinking water, baby formula, diapers, sanitary pads and toiletries, while donors have been advised not to bring clothing because transport arrangements are limiting luggage allowances.
Posting on his Jamwanda2 X account, presidential spokesperson George Charamba said delays in the repatriation process were linked to South African authorities’ efforts to profile individuals before departure.
“The hold-up which is slowing down repatriation relates to SA GOVT’s wish to profile everyone before departure. This is why SA Govt is taking them to its centre,” Charamba wrote.
Meanwhile, businessman and philanthropist Kudakwashe Tagwirei, through the Bridging Gaps Foundation, has pledged US$1 million towards transportation support for Zimbabweans wishing to return home.
