The Government says it has intensified efforts to bring home Zimbabweans stranded in South Africa and has appealed for more support from partners to sustain the repatriation operation.
The move follows rising anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa, where protests by anti-migrant groups such as March and March have heightened fears among foreign nationals.
The unrest, linked to concerns over illegal immigration, unemployment and crime, has prompted several African countries to start evacuating citizens, with hundreds of Zimbabweans reportedly seeking shelter at diplomatic missions and temporary centres.
In a statement, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works said it is working through the Department of Civil Protection to mobilise resources and strengthen partnerships with the private sector, humanitarian agencies, development partners, NGOs and churches to assist citizens gathered at various centres in South Africa.
The ministry said the exercise is being jointly coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to ensure returnees are brought home safely and with dignity.
Support being mobilised includes food, temporary shelter and transport from South Africa to designated reception centres in Zimbabwe, according to the statement.
The government has also activated the Emergency Fund to finance the programme as part of wider national humanitarian response efforts.
Authorities said departments at border posts have been placed on high alert to receive returnees and assist with their reintegration into communities countrywide.
The ministry appealed for more contributions from organisations and individuals, saying additional resources are needed to sustain the repatriation and other civil protection activities.
It also thanked those who have already supported humanitarian and emergency response efforts.
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