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The Pretoria High Court has reserved its judgement against the SA Department of Home Affairs’ leave to appeal an earlier ruling on the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) scheme against it.
The application by the Department of Home Affairs was heard on Monday, reported The Star via <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/the-star/news/zep-holders-breath-sigh-of-relief-following-court-decision-to-reserve-judgment-till-further-notice-a73dcf56-3d1b-4eb5-82fa-404ff34795b7">IOL</a>.
The Department sought to challenge the court’s ruling that the termination of ZEP permits by the South African government is unlawful.
Judge Colleen Collis said that judgment will be handed down after recess and once the new terms commence. He said:
<blockquote>
We are going to reserve our judgment on those two applications for leave to appeal, and then we will hand it down as soon as it is ready.
Parties must bear in mind that the court is now on recess, so we accommodated the hearing of this application because you had already made the request during term, but we will only hand down the judgment once the new term commences.
We will advise the parties, and it will be uploaded into case lines.
</blockquote>
Earlier this year, a full bench of the high court ruled that the Department of Home Affairs and Minister Aaron Motsoaledi did not follow proper processes in terminating the ZEP permits.
The ZEP scheme has benefited 178 000 Zimbabweans who have been in South Africa for 14 years.
The judgement bars the South African government from “arresting, issuing an order for deportation, or detaining any holder of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit… for any reason related to him or her not having any valid exemption certificate in his or her passport”.
The ruling followed a challenge brought by the Helen Suzman Foundation, which has been fighting hard to stop the department from cancelling the ZEP permits.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Pretoria High Court Reserves Judgement In ZEP Permits Ruling Appeal

The Zimbabwe Diaspora Vote Initiative (ZDVI) has called upon the 10th parliament of Zimbabwe to advocate for changes in the Electoral Amendment Act, allowing Zimbabweans living abroad to participate in general elections.
ZDVI congratulated the recently sworn-in parliamentarians and urged them to amend laws that grant voting rights to Zimbabweans working at the country’s embassies while denying the same right to other diaspora residents.
The organisation argued that Zimbabweans in the diaspora, who contribute to the country’s economy through remittances, should have the opportunity to vote. Recent statistics indicate a significant increase in diaspora remittances, highlighting their economic impact. In a statement, ZDVI spokesperson Padmore Kufa argued:
<blockquote>
We would like to extend a special message to those who were not present when the Electoral Amendment Act was debated during the last parliament during which the need for diaspora votes was raised.
Hopefully, the diaspora vote requirement will be incorporated into the new law as the debate continues.
We believe that as every constituency in Zimbabwe has someone who has left for the Diaspora, it should be in the interests of every member of parliament to ensure that the citizens from their constituency based in the diaspora are accorded an opportunity to participate in the Zimbabwean electoral process in the same way as Zimbabweans based in the Diaspora working at the Embassies are allowed to vote.
Who are contributing to the economic development of the country while working for different employers. It is segregation to give rights to some Zimbabweans in the diaspora while leaving out others living in the same geographical region.
</blockquote>
ZDVI has highlighted that a significant portion of remittances is sent by individuals who are denied their constitutional right to vote. The initiative predicts that the number of Zimbabweans working abroad will continue to increase as more seek better opportunities elsewhere.
The organisation said the existing legislation, which permits only embassy workers to vote while denying the same right to other Zimbabweans in the same country, violates the constitutional provision granting every citizen the right to vote. Therefore, the current legislation must be amended to allow both embassy workers and other diaspora residents to exercise their voting rights.
The ZANU PF government has so far refused to allow the diaspora vote, citing logistical challenges and concerns of potential electoral manipulation. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZDVI Urges Zimbabwe's Parliament To Amend Laws To Allow Diaspora Voting Rights

South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, is challenging a Gauteng High Court ruling that deemed his decision to terminate <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwean_Exemption_Permit_Visa/">Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs)</a> as “unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid.” The High Court had extended the permits for 12 months, citing the lack of a proper public participation process.
Motsoaledi argues that the court should not interfere with executive decision-making and is willing to extend the permit deadline. However, the Helen Suzman Foundation and other advocates argue that the minister’s appeal has no prospects of success and stress the importance of considering the voices of those affected.
The Pretoria High Court had criticised the department for not following proper procedures, including adequate notification and consultation with affected individuals and consideration of children’s rights. The court ordered the minister to reevaluate the matter using a fair process and imposed costs on the department. The judgment on the appeal is pending.
The Zimbabwean Exemption Permit Visa, which was initially extended to over 200,000 Zimbabwean nationals working in South Africa in 2009, has been renewed periodically since then. However, the ZEP was terminated in 2021, and holders were given a grace period of 12 months to apply for alternative visas. In December 2022, South Africa extended the ZEP for an additional 6 months. Subsequently, in June 2023, South Africa further extended the ZEP for another 6 months.
Zimbabweans residing in South Africa can apply for <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sa-reminds-zeps-holders-to-apply-for-other-visas/">four different permits:</a> work permits, study permits, business or investment visas, and family reunification. These avenues allow them to legally reside, work, study, start businesses, or join family members in South Africa. It is important to consult with the relevant authorities or seek legal advice to understand the specific requirements for each option.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Minister Motsoaledi Appeals Court Ruling On Ending Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs)

A Toronto man is seeking answers as he was unaware of his wife’s sudden death during her trip from Toronto to Zimbabwe. Gordin Mapika deeply regrets not expressing more to his wife when he dropped her off at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Little did he know that it would be their final goodbye.
Ketty Shonga, a Canadian citizen, was travelling alone to her birth country of Zimbabwe, a journey she had made several times before. Her United Airlines flight included multiple connections through Chicago, Newark, and Johannesburg, with an expected arrival in Zimbabwe on July 6, according to her flight records. Mapika said:
<blockquote>
She never called or texted.
We thought ‘Why is she not communicating? Could it be a power outage in Zimbabwe because there have been electrical problems there or could it be maybe she traveled out of the city where there is no network? We did not know.
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-263938" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_263938" style="width: 750px"><img alt="" class="wp-image-263938 size-full" decoding="async" height="422" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/shonga-.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/shonga-.jpeg 750w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/shonga--300x169.jpeg 300w" width="750"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-263938">Ketty Shonga</figcaption></figure></blockquote>
Shonga’s daughter contacted United Airlines through an online chat forum to inquire about her mother’s flight details. Screenshots of the conversation show that the representative confirmed Shonga’s flight UA188 from Newark on July 5 and her arrival at Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport at 7:05 p.m. the following day. However, Shonga was supposed to catch a connecting flight from O.R. Tambo to Zimbabwe. Isabel Murambiwa said:
<blockquote>
So, at this point we assumed she did but after not hearing from her for several days we became incredibly worried. 
</blockquote>
After seven days without any communication from Shonga, her husband Mapika contacted a family member in South Africa for help. Mapika’s nephew visited O.R. Tambo airport to seek answers and sadly discovered that Shonga had passed away. In shock, Mapika immediately booked a flight to Johannesburg, where his wife’s body was being held. An autopsy revealed that she had died from a pulmonary embolism. While the death certificate lists O.R. Tambo Airport as the location of death, the family remains uncertain if she died at the airport or on the plane. Mapika said:
<blockquote>
We have been unable to get those answers.
</blockquote>
The family also doesn’t understand why they weren’t notified. Murambiwa said:
<blockquote>
Had we not sent someone to the airport, we may have never known. It appeared as though she was being held as a Jane Doe, meaning her body was undeclared by family.
</blockquote>
Shonga’s only form of identification used in her death record was an old Zimbabwean ID card, despite her travelling with her Canadian passport. Murambiwa, a family member, expressed disappointment, stating that the authorities could have contacted the Canadian embassy or Toronto police, as Shonga was a Canadian citizen. Mapika, after arriving in South Africa, claimed her body, arranged a proper burial, and discovered that some of her belongings were missing, including her shoes, walking cane, and approximately $4,000 in cash she had brought in a backpack. Mapika said:
<blockquote>
Only $1,100 out of $5,000 was recovered. I just want police or United Airlines to tell me what exactly happened to my wife.
</blockquote>
CityNews attempted to contact United Airlines for information, but a spokesperson declined to comment on the matter. CityNews also reached out to Johannesburg police but has not received a response yet. Shonga’s family, unable to obtain the answers they seek, is now appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed or know what happened during the flight or at the airport. They are desperate to understand where she passed away. Mapika expressed his desire to share the details with his children and grandchildren, hoping to shed light on that tragic day.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Canada: Toronto Man Seeks Answers About Wife's Sudden Death During Trip To Zimbabwe

The Progressive Zimbabweans in South Africa (PZSA) group is threatening to close the Beitbridge Border Post in an effort to pressure Zimbabwean authorities into calling for new elections. This push comes after Presidential <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa/">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> was declared the winner of the presidential election held on August 23-24, 2023, by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). The victory was criticized by the SADC Election Observer Mission (SEOM), led by Dr. Nevers Sikwili Mumba, who deemed the election as not being free, fair, and credible. The SEOM cited concerns such as delayed voting, ballot paper mix-up, and voter intimidation.
<h3>Call for Fresh Elections and Why It Matters:</h3>
The PZSA group has stated that it will announce the date for a shutdown. The group is advocating for new elections that are free, fair, and credible in Zimbabwe. In a flier seen by Pindula News, the group added:
<blockquote>
Fix Zimbabwe, Stop immigration crisis in South Africa.
</blockquote>
A significant number of Zimbabweans reside in South Africa, either as workers or students. This has caused immigration concerns, as some South Africans believe that Zimbabweans are taking away job opportunities. Authorities have also expressed concerns about the strain on the economy, particularly in the healthcare sector. Last week, a large number of Zimbabwean nationals residing in South Africa participated in street protests on Friday, September 8. They were expressing their dissatisfaction with the election results of August 23, which they claimed were manipulated in favor of the ZANU PF party.
The Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa/">Nelson Chamisa</a>, rejected the presidential results and called for fresh elections supervised by an independent body like SADC, the African Union or the United Nations instead of the perceived biased ZEC. 
<h3>Waning chances of fresh elections:</h3>
Following his inauguration on September 4, 2023, President Mnangagwa has announced his new cabinet. Congratulations from regional and global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, have reduced the likelihood of a fresh poll. Academic Ibbo Mandaza believes that regional and international bodies “will do absolutely nothing unless Zimbabweans themselves take the initiative to use this occasion to pressure the regional body to carry out its responsibilities under the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security“
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono shares a similar view, stating that Mandaza’s observation accurately captures the current post-election situation in Zimbabwe. He added:
<blockquote>
Anyone who tells you that SADC, AU or UN will do something for Zimbabwe to resolve the election situation is lying to you. It is only Zimbabweans who can fix their problems.
</blockquote>
The CCC is adamant help is coming. Nelson Chamisa stated that his party <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/17/watch-chamisa-says-ccc-wont-wait-for-five-years-to-provide-leadership/">will not wait for five years</a> to provide leadership in Zimbabwe. He criticised President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa/">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a>, accusing him of undermining the democratic process through various coups on the ballot since 2008. He said:
<blockquote>
We will not wait for five years there has to be change now and we are going to lead in making sure that change comes to Zimbabwe. We are putting a full stop to this mess. Whatever it takes, we must provide leadership. 
</blockquote>
<h3>Some modicum of hope for Fresh elections?</h3>
It remains to be seen if there will be fresh polls. In 2008, Robert Mugabe was sworn in as the President of Zimbabwe after the presidential elections. However, the international community, including some countries and organisations, expressed concerns about the electoral process and alleged irregularities. There were reports of violence, intimidation, and manipulation of results during the elections. As a result, many countries and international bodies did not recognise Mugabe’s re-election and raised doubts about the legitimacy of his presidency. The situation led to diplomatic tensions and further strained Zimbabwe’s relations with the international community.
The reaction from the international comunity forced the ruling party to engage in negotiations that led to a power-sharing agreement between Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai. The agreement established the Governmrnt of National Unity (GNU) which was operational between 2009 and 2013.
<h3>More Pindula News</h3>

Progressive Zimbabweans Group Plans To Close Beitbridge Border Over Fresh Elections

An estimated 10 000 young Zimbabweans are reportedly enrolled at Zambian colleges and universities.
Parents and students who spoke to <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/10-000-zimbabwe-students-flock-to-zambia/">The Mirror</a> claimed that Zambian universities are generally cheaper and fees are paid in the local currency which is stable, unlike the Zimbabwe dollar.
In Zambia, fees start from as little as $300 per semester and the quality of education on offer is reported to be higher than what is offered in Zimbabwe.
Moreover, some students said Zimbabwean universities’s primary focus is no longer on providing quality education but on making money.
An engineering student left a local State university in the second year and went to Zambia saying one can finish a degree programme in Zimbabwe without ever setting foot in a workshop.
The Mirror established that Lusaka Health Institute alone has an estimated 123 first, second and third-year nursing students.
Joseph Mukina, an agent who processes applications for Zimbabwean students, said that there are at least 200 Zimbabwean students in each of the 58 institutes of higher learning that he deals with.
This brings the total number of Zimbabwean students in the country to over 11 000.
The Mirror also reported a source at Chirundu Border Post as saying “the flood” of Zimbabwean students crossing into Zambia at the start of new semesters cannot be ignored anymore.
However, the Minister of Higher Education, Amon Murwira said he saw nothing wrong with Zimbabweans going to Zambia to further their education. Said Murwira:
<blockquote>
People would want to twist the story to suit their narrative, but the truth is that everyone has his own choice.
We have a lot of Zimbabweans studying in China and other countries and we also have a lot of Zambians in our institutions of higher learning.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Mukina said some of the popular institutions are Africa University, Cavendish University (Lusaka), Central African Baptist University, Chreso University, Copperstone University, Eden University, Gideon Robert University, Information and Communications University (ICU), Lusaka Apex Medical University, Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) (Lusaka), Rusangu University, South Valley University, St. Bonaventure University, Texila American University Zambia, UNICAF University, University of Lusaka, Victoria Falls University of Technology (VFU), Zambia Catholic University and Zambian Open University
He also claimed he processes hundreds of applications every month from Zimbabweans seeking enrolment at Zambian colleges.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

10 000 Zimbabwean Students Migrate To Zambia

UK based Zimbabwean chartered accountant, <a href="https://twitter.com/nykCh121518/status/1701658142529003686">Nyika</a>, has shared his experience being in Namibia as a professional. He shares how this experience led to him relocating to the UK.
Pindula shares the full thread for those that may consider relocating to Namibia:
<blockquote>
<h2>Why I left Namibia</h2>
I was happy to get a job in Namibia in 2020. It’s close to Zimbabwe. However, I lasted only 10 months before relocating to UK. 
Namibia is friendly and peaceful. Windhoek city is clean &amp; quiet. It has modern malls. Wide and modern roads etc.
I didn’t see a future in Namibia due to various reasons. The gvt policy towards foreigners is unfriendly. A foreigner is required to coach a local person &amp; may be used by the gvt not to renew your visa as they expect the one coached to be able to take over and do the work.
Your work permit may not be approved by gvt on renewal &amp; you are required to leave the country. There is no clear policy regarding permanent resident (PR) or citizenship. I know some people who spent more than 20 years working yet PR applications were not approved by gvt.
Spouses on dependent visa are not permitted to work unless they can secure their own work permit. If your profession is not on critical skills list &amp; you are inexperienced, you can not secure a permit. This means you cannot work. Living in Namibia becomes very difficult.
It’s expensive in terms of accomodation &amp; food, so having a non-working spouse is not an option. 2 bed flat costs R9000 depending on location. Medical aid £6500 will create shortfalls for family of 5, it means you pay cash for bills despite paying so much contributions monthly.
If you add car loan repayment, groceries, car insurance, fuel, school fees , you cannot save at all. Schools fees is paid monthly, at St Georges I was paying R6500 per child per month. Buying a house is even expensive, land is not cheap.
At some holiday resort, you are treated as a tourist for some activities. Hence, you are charged more. Opportunities are so limited that it’s difficult to get or change a job as a foreign. You will be luck to get a jobs as spouses. If you want to venture into business permits.
May not be issued to a foreign, if successful for some years, they may not renew your permits. For me, I didn’t see a future in Namibia. Consider Namibia last as an option if planning to relocate.
You may supervise locals who are not efficient at work, you end up doing the work for them without resting. I also supervised some locals who would fall ill regularly if under pressure, you would again need to cover for the lost time. I also had hardworking locals in teams.
</blockquote>
Due to the economic pressures at home, Zimbabweans have found themselves needing to relocate. South Africa, by far, hosts the largest number of immigrants
If you have emigrated from Zimbabwe, please do share your experiences in establishing yourself permanently outside the country.

"Why I Left Namibia" - Read This Before Moving To The Country

A man from Leicester, originally from Zimbabwe, is wanted by the police for breaching the terms of his bail after being charged with child sex offences. 
Tadiwanashe Dzikiti, aged 21, was charged on September 2 with one count of sexual assault of a child and three counts of sexual communication with a child. The incident took place on Cort Crescent in Leicester.
Dzikiti appeared in Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 4, and was granted bail with certain conditions. However, he has violated these conditions and is now wanted for the offence.
Additionally, he is also wanted for failing to appear at West Chester Magistrates’ Court on September 5 regarding drug offences.
Leicestershire Police has conducted various inquiries to locate Dzikiti and is now appealing to the public for assistance in finding him.
Commenting, Detective Inspector Kevin Hames said:
<blockquote>
Dzikiti has failed to obey to the strict conditions imposed on him when he was released by the courts last week and is now wanted for this offence.
We will continue to carry out enquiries to locate him but we are also asking for the public to help and come forward with information if you think you may have seen Dzikiti or know of his whereabouts.
I understand people may have concerns but I can assure the public that police are doing everything possible to try and find him.
Our advice for anyone who sees the man pictured is to not approach him but to call police on 999.
For anyone who has information or thinks they may have seen Dzikiti during the last week, please do come forward. Your information could assist with helping us to piece together his movements.
</blockquote>
It is believed that Dzikiti has connections in several areas of Birmingham, including Ward End, Handsworth, Lozells, and East Handsforth.
Furthermore, it has been confirmed that before his arrest in Leicester last weekend, Dzikiti frequently travelled by train. His most recent journey was from Birmingham to London last month.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Leicester Man From Zimbabwe Wanted For Breaching Bail In Child Sex Offences Case

Scores of Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa on Friday, 8 September took to the streets to protest against the 23 August election results which they allege were rigged in favour of ZANU PF.
The protestors were expected to gather from 10 AM at Union Building Triangle Stanza Bopape Street Acadia Pretoria moving to Zimbabwe Embassy at Hatfield, Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) spokesperson Isaac Mahamba was cited as saying by <a href="https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/zimbabweans-march-against-results-elections-emmerson-mnangagwa-8-september-2023/">The South African</a>.
The march was set to commence at Union Building Triangle straight onto Francis Baard Street turn right on Eastwood Street and left onto Marten Avenue.
Mahamba said the participants were expected to disperse from the march at a PM and Tshwane Metro Police officers were to be deployed to monitor the march and all affected streets.
Posting on social media site X about the march, Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said:
<blockquote>
A group of Zimbabweans living in South Africa is protesting today in Pretoria against the ANC’s endorsement of the shambolic Zimbabwean elections.
South Africa’s ruling party went beyond endorsing the sham election calling Zimbabwe’s main opposition leader Nelson Chamisa a Western puppet.
They are holding placards reminding the ANC Government that the rigged elections in Zimbabwe are the main driver of illegal immigration in South Africa.
ANC Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula insulted Zimbabweans saying that they had taken their whole country to South Africa, yet he also openly twerks for ZANUPF on social media endorsing the sham election which drives people to South Africa due to economic mismanagement and corrupt rule.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe held Harmonised Elections on 23 and 24 August and ZANU PF’s Emmerson Mnangagwa was elected President for his second and final term but some opposition supporters, including CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, rejected the results.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabweans In South Africa Demonstrate Against 2023 Election Results

Full statement by the Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF) on its court application to suspend the arrest or deportation of Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) holders, pending an appeal by South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi:
<blockquote>
The Helen Suzman Foundation has been compelled to bring an application in order to safeguard the integrity of the judgment finding that the termination of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) was unlawful and invalid. 
The Minister of Home Affairs seeks now to appeal that judgment. In the ordinary course, the leave to appeal process suspends the operation of the underlying order.
In this case, the risk arises that the expiry date of the ZEP could be run down by running out the appeal process – meaning that there would be no real relief to be granted ZEP holders if that is the Courts’ ultimate determination.
HSF approached the Minister asking that he agree to observe the protections extended to ZEP holders pending the conclusion of the appeal process. This was refused. It is on this basis that HSF approaches the court. 
Shadowy organisations now seek deliberately to misrepresent the HSF’s application – misrepresentations that began circulating online, surprisingly, less than one day after HSF had filed its papers with the parties.
These deliberate misrepresentations are more than mischievous. They look to endanger the staff of HSF, all of whom are South African.
Even more sinisterly, they provide a vivid demonstration of what the Economist magazine this week called “paranoid nationalism.”
These blatant misrepresentations come hard on the heels of incendiary attempts to heap the blame for last week’s devastating fire in Johannesburg’s city centre, in which so many died and were injured, not on those truly responsible but absurdly on NGOs. 
No one should have to be reminded of the role that NGOs have played in this country in securing rights and fighting against corruption and malfeasance.
Coordinated attempts to discredit NGOs and erode the public’s trust through lies and misrepresentation are an attack on democracy itself.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SA NGO Court Application To Stop Deportation Of ZEP Holders | Full Statement

The Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa has established a hotline at the Johannesburg consulate for use by Zimbabweans during emergencies.
In a public notice issued on 31 August, Zimbabwe consul general in Johannesburg Eria Phiri said the hotline is open round the clock for use during floods, accidents, and other emergencies. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that the following number has been set up as the Consulate’s hotline and can only be used in emergencies such as accidents, floods etc;
HOTLINE: +27664873806
The hotline is open 24/7.
For further interaction with the Consulate on all issues of mutual interest, you can also use the following official channels;
Facebook page: Zimbabwe Consulate Boeing Road Bedfordview
Twitter: Zimbabweconsulatejhb
WhatsApp: +27828249435
Email: admin@zimbabweconsulate.co.za 
Website: www.zimbabweconsulate.co.za
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Embassy In SA Opens Hotline For Use During Emergencies

Representatives from the Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Africa on Saturday visited the Diepkloof Forensic Pathology Services to establish the status of Zimbabweans believed to have died in a fire in central Johannesburg last week.
South African online publication <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/joburg-fire-death-toll-rises-to-77-as-zimbabwean-and-malawian-diplomats-visit-victims-83d2d06c-54cc-485e-ad62-b4a57da61a7e">IOL</a> reported that the death toll from the hijacked Usindiso Building which caught fire on Thursday has now risen to 77 after one of the victims rescued from fire died in hospital.
Gauteng Department of Health’s spokesperson Motalatale Modiba was quoted as saying that more than 30 patients are still being treated in different facilities in the province. Said Modiba:
<blockquote>
Out of the 88 patients that were seen at various health facilities – Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Helen Joseph Hospital, South Rand Hospital, Tembisa Hospital, Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital and Hillbrow Community Health Centre – only 31 people are still receiving care.
Of the 31 patients in admission, only five still need semi-critical care however, they are fully awake.
The admitted patients are not impacting on the normal flow of trauma patients in facilities.
</blockquote>
Modida also revealed that authorities are conducting post-mortems on 74 bodies that were burnt in the apartheid-era Central Pass Office. He said:
<blockquote>
As more families come forth to report their loved ones who might have perished in the fire incident, the Gauteng Department of Health can confirm that it is on track to complete conducting post-mortems on the 74 deceased bodies.
By Saturday evening, the pathologist had done post-mortems on 58 bodies and were only left with 16 to be concluded on Sunday (today).
There are 62 unidentifiable bodies at the Diepkloof Forensic Pathology Services mortuary and 12 identifiable corpses.
</blockquote>
Modiba also said 40 families have so far visited the facility to report their loved ones which has resulted in a line list of 66 names that possibly died in the fire being developed. He said:
<blockquote>
Nine families have already identified their loved ones from the 12 identifiable bodies.
Once the families conclude the necessary processes and produce the required identification documents the mortal remains will be released to them for burial.
</blockquote>
The building at 80 Albert Street which fire last Thursday resulting in multiple deaths is owned by the City of Joburg.
It is situated on the corner of Delvers Street and was officially opened in 1954 as the “Non-European Affairs Department” and served as the Central Pass Office.
The building previously housed the Usindiso Ministries Women’s Shelter before it was hijacked by syndicates.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Diplomats Visit Johannesburg Fire Victims As Death Rises To 77

The Helen Suzman Foundation has filed an urgent application in the High Court to halt the mass deportations of illegal immigrants in South Africa, particularly Zimbabweans. The foundation argues that the deportations are unlawful and violate the rights of the affected individuals, many of whom have been residing in South Africa for an extended period and have positively contributed to the country. They further contend that the deportations are being conducted disorganisedly and inhumanely, denying individuals the opportunity to appeal their cases.
The government, on the other hand, asserts that the deportations are necessary to safeguard the country’s borders and ensure compliance with immigration laws. The High Court is set to hear the urgent application in the following week, and until then, the deportations have been temporarily halted.
The Helen Suzman Foundation, established in 1963, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting human rights and democracy in South Africa. The foundation’s legal challenge on the deportation issue holds significance in the country’s immigration policy and has drawn attention from the government and the public.
The ruling will impact numerous Zimbabweans, who have sought refuge in South Africa due to economic hardships or political persecution. Many Zimbabweans were granted Exemption Permits (ZEPs) to live, work, and study in South Africa. The South African government introduced the ZEP program as a temporary solution for undocumented or expired visa-holding Zimbabwean nationals. It aimed to regularise their status, providing legal documentation for work, study, and residence in South Africa.
Initially issued for four years, the program was extended due to legal challenges and the need for a comprehensive approach. Applicants had to meet specific criteria, including identity proof, employment evidence, and a clean criminal record. The ZEP program aimed to offer legal protection and access to services while long-term immigration policies were explored. However, the program was discontinued in 2021, with the application deadline passed. The government has announced new visas which the affected individuals can apply for. However, there are concerns that thousands of affected people do not qualify for the visas. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

South Africa: Helen Suzman Foundation Seeks Court Order To Halt Mass Deportations

New research has revealed that the cancellation of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP) Visas will harm South Africans as well. The ZEP was discontinued in December 2021, and holders were given a deadline to switch to another immigration category in South Africa. The deadline has been extended multiple times, and the Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, is appealing the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/06/28/zep-termination-declared-unlawful-unconstitutional-invalid/">Pretoria High Court ruling that declared the termination of ZEPs unconstitutional.</a>
The research, conducted by the Centre of Sociological Research and Practice at the University of Johannesburg, highlights the social and economic value that migrants bring to the country. It notes that the cancellation of ZEP visas will harm South Africans in the sense that there will be a loss of revenue for local producers and retailers if there are fewer people purchasing goods in South Africa to send back to Zimbabwe. This, in turn, could impact jobs and rental income. Reads the report:
<blockquote>
Either way, dislocating ZEP holders will negatively affect South Africans too. For example, local producers and retailers will lose revenue if there are fewer people buying goods in South Africa to send back to Zimbabwe, and that could affect jobs. There’s also rental income that will be lost.
We would lose a great many friends, neighbours and spouses, face diminished variety and shrinking horizons, and diminish the value of life. Migration enriches everyone, far beyond cold economic benefits.
But the official South African approach to international migration seems increasingly utilitarian and decreasingly about people, increasingly focused on manipulating the labour force and ‘surplus population’.
</blockquote>
The research also underscores that many ZEP holders have established their lives in South Africa and have no prospects to return to in Zimbabwe. Families have been formed, including marriages with South Africans, and children’s visas are dependent on their parents’ permits. The cancellation of ZEPs will have a severe impact on these individuals and their families.
The report argues that the conditions that led to the creation of the ZEP have not improved in Zimbabwe, making the cancellation unjustified. One ZEP holder who was a participant to the study said:
<blockquote>
I have two kids, aged 15 and 13, in South Africa. I have nothing in Zimbabwe. So, the reason why these permits were given in the first place – must still be implemented. Because the very same reasons still exist, the economic situation is still the same, nothing has changed.
People are still flocking into South Africa, if anything – they should be making more people apply for these permits.
</blockquote>
The study also found that the process of applying for permits and alternate visas has become costly and burdensome, particularly due to time-bound documentation requirements and online application difficulties. This creates a paradox where the government criticizes undocumented migration but makes it challenging for individuals to formalize their status.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

New Research Shows Cancellation Of ZEP Visas Will Harm South Africans As Well

A video circulating on social media depicts a heartwarming encounter between a South African motorist and a Zimbabwean street vendor in Johannesburg. The vendor, who carries her baby on her back while selling eggs and peanuts, received a generous gesture from the South African man. He purchased all of her merchandise valued at R300 and handed her R800, urging her to go home and rest.
In the video, the vendor shares that she supports her children and parents back in Zimbabwe by selling boiled eggs and roasted peanuts. For more details, please watch the accompanying video.
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 480px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="852" id="video-261926-1" preload="metadata" width="480"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Vending-SA.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Vending-SA.mp4">https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Vending-SA.mp4</a></video></div>
South Africa has become a refuge for a significant number of Zimbabweans who migrated to the country following the economic collapse and political instability that occurred since the early 2000s.
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WATCH: South African Blesses Baby-carrying Zimbabwean Vendor, Tells Her To Go Rest

Eppie Muranda (48), a Zimbabwean woman, has shared her journey of becoming a radiographer in the United Kingdom. Despite cultural shock and homesickness when she moved to the UK as a teenager, Eppie always dreamt of becoming a radiographer. She said:
<blockquote>
The homesickness and cultural shock were both really hard. When I first discovered the role of radiographer my own mother didn’t believe someone like me could do it. I went to hospital with her in 1984 when she broke her leg and was fascinated by the radiographers positioning her and then going behind the screen to take pictures.
When I told my mother I’d like to do this, she wasn’t sure because at the time there was a misconception that you needed financial backing to have a career like that, but I always dreamt that I would become a radiographer.
</blockquote>
After working in various jobs, she became a healthcare assistant and started studying diagnostic radiography 22 years after her first experience with radiographers. Eppie graduated with honours in 2009 and did two more years of training in Interventional Radiology. She is now a Clinical Lead and is still passionate about her job.
Eppie is proud of the positive impact she has made on her department and the Trust. She told The Telegraph:
<blockquote>
I love to see patients treated with respect, dignity, and empathy – just as you would want one of your loved ones to be treated. We cover a wide range of procedures and of course people fear the unknown.
My skills have upgraded, there are loads of opportunities and my Trust is massive with close-knit collaboration and harmonisation of health services. It’s very innovative and promotes equality, diversity and inclusivity.
My Trust strives continually to improve the life chances and wellness of the diverse communities across Manchester [where Eppie now lives with her husband Adewale] and the surrounding areas. I encourage people to train in diagnostic radiography – my own daughter is soon graduating in therapeutic radiography.
</blockquote>
Eppie Muranda runs a charity organisation that raises awareness about careers in radiography and radiotherapy. She also organises Black History Month events that bring communities together to network, socialise, and be empowered.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwean Woman Shares Journey To Becoming Radiographer In UK

The Consulate of Zimbabwe in Johannesburg has dismissed reports alleging that it has made transport available for any Zimbabweans who wish to go vote during the 23 August 2023 elections.
Last week, the Zimbabwe consul-general in Johannesburg Eria Phiri <a href="https://ewn.co.za/2023/07/19/zim-embassy-in-sa-eff-offer-zimbabweans-transport-to-vote-back-at-home">was cited by EWN</a> as saying the embassy will assist those wishing to exercise their democratic right of voting.
However, Phiri has denied ever making such a promise, and instead, said the Government of Zimbabwe has only chipped in to assist its citizens affected by the Boksburg gas leak tragedy. <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/no-free-transport-for-zimbabweans-seeking-to-travel-from-south-africa-to-vote-says-consulate-279bfbbd-5674-4c92-9b5a-e3541b5a5993">IOL</a> quoted Phiri as saying:
<blockquote>
This serves to put the record straight regarding an article circulating on social media purporting that the Zimbabwe embassy in South Africa will provide transport to Zimbabwe nationals who wish to go and cast their votes on 23 August 2023.
At no point during any media interview did the Consul General of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Johannesburg make a commitment that the government of Zimbabwe will provide transport to potential voters.
The public may wish to be informed that the media wanted to know how the government of Zimbabwe was going to assist the victims of the Boksburg gas leak disaster where four members of the same family perished.
The gesture was provided to the bereaved family and the deceased were laid to rest with dignity on July 15, 2023, in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwean diplomat reiterated that the Government is not going to provide anyone with transport to Zimbabwe to cast their vote.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

No Free Transport For SA-Based Zimbabweans To Travel Home For Elections, Says Consulate

Staff shortages are considered one of the main problems faced by the construction sector in the UK. According to <a href="https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/construction-industry-research-reports/construction-skills-network-csn/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Construction Skills Network (CSN) report</a>, more than a quarter of a million extra construction workers will be needed by 2026 to meet growing demands in the UK sector. Carpenters, joiners, and construction managers are currently among the most in-demand job positions in the UK, along with various technical roles. The entire UK, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Northern Ireland</a>, is undergoing a nationwide construction boom, leading to a <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">critical skills shortage</a> in the industry, which is the worst it has been in many years.
To get a basic understanding of working in the UK, the official <a href="https://www.gov.uk/">UK Government</a> website is a good resource which will give you information on anything from taxation to Visas to transferring your driving license and everything in between.
<h4>Visa Requirements</h4>
UK construction companies tend to be hesitant to hire individuals without <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">valid entitlement</a> to work in the UK. While EU nationals have more relaxed rules, non-EU nationals must navigate a complicated points-based system to determine eligibility for work in the UK. Often, a written job offer is required before a Visa is granted. This creates a catch-22 situation for non-EU nationals as construction companies are often reluctant to interview candidates without a Visa in place.
<h3 class="gem-c-title__text govuk-heading-xl">Skilled Worker visa </h3>
The UK government website confirms that the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Skilled Worker visa</a> is intended for individuals who wish to perform an eligible job with an approved employer in the UK. This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa and allows individuals to work in UK waters as well.
<h3 id="eligibility">Eligibility</h3>
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, there are a few requirements that you must meet.
<blockquote>
1). You must work for a UK employer who has been approved by the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Home Office</a>.
2). You must have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer that contains information about the job being offered to you in the UK.
3). The job you are offered must be on the list of eligible occupations.
4). The <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">minimum salary</a> you are paid will depend on the type of work you do.
</blockquote>
The specific <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-job">eligibility depends on your job</a>. You must have a confirmed job offer before you apply for your visa.
<h3 id="knowledge-of-english">Knowledge of English</h3>
<blockquote>
You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/knowledge-of-english">prove your knowledge of English</a> when you apply. If you’re not eligible for a Skilled Worker visa You may be eligible for <a href="https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa">another type of visa to work in the UK</a>.
</blockquote>
<h3 id="how-to-apply">How to apply</h3>
<blockquote>
You must apply online. How you apply depends on whether you’re:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/apply-from-outside-the-uk">outside the UK</a> and are coming to the UK</li>
<li>inside the UK and <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/extend-your-visa">extending your current visa</a></li>
<li>inside the UK and <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/switch-to-this-visa">switching from a different visa</a></li>
</ul>
If you want to change your job or employer, you must <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/update-your-visa-if-you-change-job-or-employer">apply to update your visa</a>.
<a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-partner-and-children">Your partner and children</a> can apply to join you or stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they’re eligible.
</blockquote>
<h3 id="how-long-it-takes">How long it takes</h3>
<blockquote>
You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship. As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents. You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.
</blockquote>
<h3 id="getting-a-decision">Getting a decision</h3>
<blockquote>
After applying online and submitting your documents and <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">identity proof</a>, you can expect a decision on your visa within three weeks if you’re outside the UK and eight weeks if you’re inside the UK. You may opt for a faster decision by paying an additional fee.How you do this depends on whether you’re <a href="https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement/applying-outside-the-uk">outside the UK</a> or <a href="https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement">inside the UK</a>.
</blockquote>
<h3 id="how-much-it-costs">How much it costs</h3>
<blockquote>
To apply for a visa, every applicant including your partner and children must pay the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">application fee</a>, healthcare surcharge for each year of stay, and provide evidence of sufficient personal savings. <a href="https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs">Check how much money you’ll need</a>.
</blockquote>
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UK Construction Faces Staff Shortages; 250K Workers Needed By 2026

A Zimbabwean healthcare worker has been awarded more than £25 000 after she was fired by bosses only days after arriving in the UK when they found out she was pregnant.
The <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12314927/Healthcare-worker-30-came-UK-Zimbabwe-better-version-awarded-25-000-employment-tribunal-sacked-pregnant.html">Daily Mail</a> reported on Wednesday, 19 July that Felicity Khupe did not tell bosses she was pregnant when offered employment.
She left Zimbabwe for Britain in 2022 while expecting her second child after a UK firm sponsored her to come.
The 30-year-old was fired after they found she was six months along on her second day.
Khupe then sued Comforting Hands Recruitment for unfair dismissal and maternity discrimination and a tribunal said she “missed out on the excitement of being a mother” and now “lives in fear of being deported”.
The company, based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, trains staff for deployment to residential homes and nursing homes across Yorkshire, East Riding and the North East.
Giving evidence to the tribunal, Khupe said when she said she was pregnant, the care coordinator said it was a bit tricky and she needed to talk to the director about it.
She said the director visited her the next day, telling her that “unfortunately” because of her pregnancy she could not continue working there. Said Khupe:
<blockquote>
[She told me] she was cancelling her Course of Sponsorship so I have to go back to Zimbabwe and I have to do it as soon as possible as I would be given 30 days by the Home Office after which my visa would be cancelled.
</blockquote>
Khupe further told the tribunal that she left company accommodation the following Saturday, just one week after arriving from Zimbabwe.
She said she would have taken six months of unpaid maternity leave if she had been able to keep her job, from October 2022 until April this year.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

UK: Zimbabwean Healthcare Worker Fired For Being Pregnant Awarded £25 000 Compensation

The Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa says it has made transport available for any citizens who wish to go vote during the 23 August 2023 elections.
Zimbabwe consul-general in Johannesburg Eria Phiri told South African media that the embassy will assist those wishing to exercise their democratic right of voting. He said:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe is free to accept anyone who is Zimbabwean to come and participate in the elections.
So, any Zimbabwean national who would like to participate in the elections was supposed to have registered in line with the Constitution.
</blockquote>
Phiri said the embassy will provide Zimbabwean citizens with transport back to South Africa, provided they have proper documents.
Earlier this month, prominent South African opposition leader, Julius Malema, urged Zimbabweans in that country to return home and vote in the general elections.
Malema, who leads South Africa’s second-largest opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), said that his party is ready to hire buses to transport Zimbabweans so they can vote for the government of their choice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zim Embassy In South Africa Offers Citizens Transport To Travel Back Home For Elections

The Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa has said it would be taking care of the repatriation and burial of the four Zimbabweans who died in the Boksburg gas leak disaster earlier this month.
Two of them were adults, Clairster Ndlovu and Siziwe Dube, while the other two were children, Lenmore Ndlovu (4) and Thembelihle Dube (3).
Seventeen people died at the Angelo Informal Settlement as a result of a nitrogen oxide leak from a gas canister.
It was alleged that illegal miners, also known as Zama Zama in South Africa, were trying to pry open the cylinder.
Many of the people who died were Mozambican and Zimbabwean nationals whose families are struggling to raise money to repatriate the bodies for burial in their home countries.
<a href="https://ewn.co.za/2023/07/19/boksburg-gas-leak-zim-embassy-to-see-to-zim-nationals-repatriation-and-burial">Eyewitness News</a> quoted Zimbabwe Consular General in Johannesburg, Eria Phiri as saying it is important that the deceased are buried at home. Phiri said:
<blockquote>
The government of Zimbabwe is a considerate government. Where we experience such disasters, we always assist our nationals.
</blockquote>
Phiri said the embassy has begun preparing the repatriation documents and is expecting to have a funeral by the end of this month.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Embassy In SA Pledges To Repatriate Victims Of Boksburg Gas Leak Disaster

Job Tawengwa, a de-mining and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) expert from Harare, Zimbabwe, says there is always high risk associated with his job.
He has worked in various conflict zones since 1998, including Mozambique, Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan and South Sudan. For Tawengwa, the attraction of his job was the high salaries earned by de-miners, which were 10 times higher than what professionals were getting in Zimbabwe. Tangwena told <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/7/10/migration-within-africa-a-new-series-on-new-homes-close-to-home">Al Jazeera</a>:
<blockquote>
We encountered armed gunmen and militia everywhere we went who often erected roadblocks and you had to negotiate your way through them. The risk is always there on the road from anti-tank mines and anti-personnel mines and you can’t stray off the road.
</blockquote>
Ahead of South Sudan’s Independence Day celebrations on July 9, 2011, massive explosions rocked a building in the capital, Juba, close to the Celebration Square, the venue of the ceremony. The source of the explosions was a storage bunker used to store military-grade weapons and explosives. He recalled:
<blockquote>
I had to clear that bunker next to Celebration Square. I was part of the two-member team that had to clear the shells and the projectiles that had not exploded. We were rushing against the clock as independence would be in a few days.
</blockquote>
Tawengwa was part of an EOD team identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with unexploded ordnances using specialised tools and techniques, contracted by the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS). Despite the inherent dangers of the job, he finds it rewarding, citing the example of seeing children playing soccer in a field that was previously avoided due to landmines. Tawengwa’s family is used to his infrequent visits, and even though communications were limited in the early days of his work, he can now do video calls and talk to his family on special occasions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwean De-Mining Expert Highlights High Risk in His Profession

The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has arrested a 41-year-old Zimbabwean man in Tsakane suspected of possessing fraudulent documents.
The suspect was found selling fraudulent documents, including doctors’ notes, temporary asylum seeker forms, and birth certificates. The man, who claimed to be a middleman, had never met the person who produced the documents and only communicated with the supplier over the phone.
The suspect disclosed that he intended to make money so that he could obtain a fraudulent South African identity document at a cost of R12,000.
The suspect was detained and charged with possession of fraudulent documents, and further investigations are ongoing to uncover all individuals involved in this operation.
He is expected to appear before the Tsakane Magistrate’s Court soon. Further charges under the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002) are being pursued, and investigations are ongoing to uncover all individuals involved in this operation.
In a separate case, EMPD police arrested a 45-year-old man in March who was riding a motorbike for ignoring instructions to stop. The man then produced a fake Zimbabwean driving license. The manA case of fraud has been registered, and charges under the Immigration Act may be added. The man was caught after a chase and arrested in the Tembisa area.
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Zimbabwean Man Arrested For Selling Fraudulent Documents In South Africa

South African-based Zimbabwean athlete Givemore Mudzinganyama, who has been in the neighbouring country for the past 14 years, says surviving as a migrant athlete with no job is tough.
Mudzinganyama told <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/7/13/dont-feel-like-i-belong-a-zimbabwean-athlete-in-south-africa">Al Jazeera</a> that he had to learn some Xhosa, one of South Africa’s 11 official languages but still does not feel a sense of belonging after 14 years in the country.
The 32-year-old is currently on the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) which is set to expire in December 2023. He said:
<blockquote>
I came in through a visitor’s visa and would only stay for a limited period. 
Sometimes port authorities would let me in for three months and sometimes for a month.
When you have it and it needs renewal, an athlete is not considered as a skilled worker [so] every time you want to renew it, it’s a big challenge.
</blockquote>
Mudzinganyama said he had to travel to the Beitbridge border post several times a year, exit and re-enter South Africa to comply with entry requirements. He said:
<blockquote>
In those days they used to say you had to leave the country for seven days and then be granted entry again. In 2011, I got a proper visa. Now I’m waiting for the new visa.
</blockquote>
He said when xenophobic attacks flared up in South Africa, he was scared he would become a victim. Said Mudzinganyama:
<blockquote>
I don’t feel like I belong here. It’s satisfying but it’s not home. When I have [permanent] residency, I could buy a house and stay for as long as I want … [but] at the end of the day, you know home is best.
</blockquote>
He, however, said being a resident of South Africa has had its advantages, especially considering that there is an abundance of competition, well-planned in advance.
Mudzinganyama moved from Cape Town to Johannesburg, South Africa’s commercial capital, in November 2020.
In Jo’burg, he started training with a coach who provided him with both food and accommodation along with a number of social runners he trained. He said:
<blockquote>
From there, I started winning small races. We had money to eat and for other things.
</blockquote>
In April 2022, Mudzinganyama won the Seshego Marathon, a 50km (31-mile) race held in South Africa’s Limpopo province.
This February, he won the Kazungula Marathon, a 42km (26-mile) marathon in Botswana in February.
Two months later, he won Cape Town’s prestigious Two Oceans Marathon, earning him 300 000 South African rands (US$16 000) in prize money.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Athlete Opens Up On His 14-year Stay In South Africa

Zimbabwean-born Leicester City forward Tawanda Maswanhise has expressed his desire to play for the Warriors if given the opportunity to do so.
Soccer24 reported that Maswanhise (20), has spent over ten years in the Leicester City development structures.
He has made immense progress at the Foxes, to the point of being included in the Premier League matchday squad for the first team last season.
Speaking at the Veterans Football Tournament held in Leicester sponsored by funeral services company Zororo Phumulani, Maswanhise said:
<blockquote>
I was born in Zimbabwe, I love Zimbabwe. My family is from Zimbabwe and given an opportunity I would love to play for Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
National Teams General Manager Wellington Mpandare expressed his excitement over Maswanhise’s desire to play for Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s exciting news for Zimbabweans because he (Maswanhise) is a player that we have always wanted to represent Zimbabwe.
We need a large pool of Zimbabwean players dotted around the world to come and play for their nation, it will be up to the coach to then select the best that will represent the nation.
Maswanhise is a player we have always wanted to represent Zimbabwe and now that he has admitted that he wants to, it’s good and exciting and we hope that this time, he will be able to come.
</blockquote>
Maswanhise was born in Zimbabwe and moved to the United Kingdom at the age of two.
He has previously been targeted by Warriors coaches, including Norman Mapeza before the 2021 AFCON finals in Cameroon.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Leicester City Forward Pledges Allegiance To Warriors

Hopewell Chin’ono, an award-winning Zimbabwean journalist, has expressed concern over the increasing number of Zimbabweans with Master’s degrees who are forced to do care work in England due to desperation.
Chin’ono highlighted the tragic failure of governance by ZANU-PF in Zimbabwe and Brexit, which opened up vacancies for English-speaking people from former colonies. He noted that many young Zimbabweans with university degrees are sitting at home with no jobs, and working as care assistants in Britain is a welcome opportunity for them.
In a Twitter post seen by Pindula News, Chin’ono urged these young people to continue studying while doing care work, as their skills would be highly needed back home in Zimbabwe. He also called for alternative political thinking with ideas and a plan for attaining power and changing Zimbabwe. Chin’ono emphasised the importance of the Zimbabwean diaspora in rebuilding the country and urged professionals in the diaspora to take patriotic leave from work to help rebuild the country. Reads the tweet:
<blockquote>
Today was another heartbreaking day for me. 
Many young people who came to greet me at the airport in Harare and on the plane were mainly young and with university degrees, but destined to be Care Assistants in Britain. 
When I lived in England, Care Work was for those without tertiary education and was only used as a stepping stone to bigger things, but today we have Zimbabweans with Master of Arts or Science degrees setting off to do Care Work out of desperation. 
This has been caused by 2 things, the tragic failure to govern by ZANUPF in Zimbabwe, and Brexit which opened up these vacancies for people from the former colonies, people who speak English. 
The guy seating next to me from Harare to Addis Ababa regretted that he won’t be able to vote, he wanted the satisfaction of voting out a corrupt and incompetent Government! 
But desperate circumstances stole that opportunity from him. 
I consider myself extremely lucky, I come from a generation where one would study towards a particular profession, and then pursue that as a career after graduating from the Polytechnic or University. 
Nowadays a lot of young people are sitting home doing nothing, so working as a Care Assistant in Britain is a welcome opportunity to this generation of educated but unemployed youths. 
As I always remind the young who follow me on social media, I bought my first property in Zimbabwe when I was 29 in Colne Valley, there was no shady deals involved or favors. Strictly Biz. 
I just walked into CABS (Building Society) and got a mortgage, just like that. 
Today we have generations that might never own even a 2 bed home in the townships unless Zimbabwe’s political fortunes change, or unless they leave Zimbabwe. 
For Zimbabwe’s fortunes to change, you need more than a people’s will and desire to vote, you need an alternative political thinking with ideas and a plan for how to capture power and change Zimbabwe. 
But until that happens, I and many others will keep saying goodbye to Zimbabwe’s young, bright &amp; its future which is being absorbed to develop mainly Britain and South Africa. 
When these young people go away, they WON’T escape ZANUPF’s corrupt &amp; failed rule, they have to send money back home. 
Their lives in Britain would not be of a standard that corresponds with their earnings because they have to send siblings to school in Zim, and pay hospital bills for their elderly parents whose pensions were looted twice by the ZANUPF Government. 
The political alternative should pay attention to this aspect and get the Zimbabwean diaspora into a structured powerful group as opposed to sporadic groupings. 
If ZANUPF were removed from power today, Zimbabwe will not be able to rise again quickly without the diaspora skills, and there are in their millions. 
We don’t know how to make things anymore, because we stopped making things a long time ago. 
How do you become a diligent town planner when there has been no town planning taking place in Zimbabwe for decades? 
How do you have people who have never worked their whole life leading your councils and parliament? 
Some professionals in the diaspora will have to take Patriotic Leave from work to come back home and help rebuild the country without which we are doomed. So as many young people leave Zimbabwe to do these Care jobs, I urge them to continue studying whilst there because a day will come when their skills that they would have gotten become highly needed back home. 
To all the young people who came to greet me today at the airport &amp; plane, thank you for sharing your stories. 
If it helps, I started off as a cleaner in Planet Hollywood in London. 
But I found my way up faster because of my desire to do better for myself, and an upbringing that put hardwork at the center of everything you do.
 I said Care Work was a stepping stone during my time, make it a stepping stone for yourselves too! 
Travel well my compatriots, my tears are flowing as I type this, God will protect you, protect yourselves too.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Chin'ono: Care Work In England Used To Be For Those Without Tertiary Education

South Africa’s ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), is supporting Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s decision to end <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwean_Exemption_Permit_Visa/">Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs)</a>. Motsoaledi is appealing a court order that declared the termination of the permits to be unlawful and unconstitutional.
The ANC is also calling for tougher by-laws and tighter border controls due to challenges with illegal mining and drug trafficking. ANC First Deputy Secretary Nomvula Mokonyane stated that the party no longer believes that South Africa belongs to all who live in it and that the current ethos is not working for South Africans or neighbouring countries. Nomvula said:
<blockquote>
 The issue related to our borders, we support comrade Motsoaledi.
We were a bit naive believing that South Africa belongs to all who live in it.
It’s not working for South Africans, nor is it working for the neighbouring countries. We have a challenge dealing with illegal mining, we have a problem with the drugs.
</blockquote>
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled last month that South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi’s decision to terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) was unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid. The ZEPs were set to expire at the end of 2021, but the ruling extended them by 12 months.
Motsoaledi’s department plans to appeal the court’s ruling and challenge the court’s ruling in the matter of the Zimbabwe Immigration Federation and his department. The minister stated that the court’s findings on the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA) were questionable, especially regarding public participation when a decision affects a specific category of persons, in this case, Zimbabwean nationals. He argues that the decision not to extend the ZEPs involves policy considerations that fall within the executive’s domain.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ANC Supports Ending Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs)

Two Zimbabwean nationals were brutally murdered at their hair salon in Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa, some 26 kilometres east of the Johannesburg CBD.
The two, Obey Mavhengere (37) and Voight Mapfumo (26) who was known as ‘RasVee’ among his clients, were killed at around 18:50 on June 15, 2023.
Benoni City Times reports that the two friends were attacked with an axe at their hair salon in Benoni Central Business District (CBD) on the corner of Horsfall Street and Prince’s Avenue. Sources said Mavhengere was found dead on the scene, while Mapfumo was rushed to the hospital but died upon arrival.
The police have not arrested any suspects yet, and investigations are ongoing. Ekurhuleni district communication officer Captain Nelda Sekgobela said:
<blockquote>
Mapfumo was rushed to hospital by an ambulance but pronounced dead on arrival.
We cannot confirm that because there were no witnesses. Investigations are ongoing. The police have arrested no one yet.
</blockquote>
Thabang Ndlovu, the distraught cousin of Obey Mavhengere, expressed his family’s deep sorrow and difficulty in accepting Mavhengere’s untimely death. Ndlovu stated that his mother and other family members are struggling to come to terms with the loss, particularly Mavhengere’s mother, whom he described as being very close to her youngest child and loving him dearly. Thabang said:
<blockquote>
The past few days have been hard, especially on his mother. They were very close. She loved him dearly. He was her youngest child.
Seeing my cousin in that state broke my heart. He had a wound on one of his ears which looked like a bullet wound, and his throat was slit.
</blockquote>
Residents and business owners in the Benoni CBD held a memorial service for Voight Mapfumo on June 23, followed by his burial in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, on June 24. The emotional event was attended by many, and his friends and fellow Zimbabweans carried his coffin down Bedford Avenue while chanting.
The Benoni police are urging the public to come forward with any information that may help lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabweans Murdered At Hair Salon In Benoni, South Africa

An inquest at Reading Coroner’s Court (UK) heard that a Zimbabwean pregnant nurse, Stabile Sibanda, bled to death at home more than four hours after calling for an ambulance.
Sibanda had called 999 at 1:11 AM on July 23, 2020, to report abdominal pain and suspected an ectopic pregnancy, The Mirror reported. However, the South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) was too busy and dealing with high levels of post-COVID staff sickness due to poor mental health.
A private ambulance service, Phoenix, was then called, but the crew dispatched did not include a trained paramedic. Phoenix technicians, Kara Mathieson and Lee Brown, arrived at Sibanda’s home in Ascot, Berkshire, two hours after the initial call at 3:11 AM. They could not locate her first-floor flat until 27 minutes later. Ms Sibanda bled to death at her home, and the Phoenix crew called the police at 4:36 AM for assistance in getting her into the ambulance. However, she suffered a haemorrhage and was declared dead at 5:33 AM.
The Berkshire Coroner Heidi Connor concluded that Ms Sibanda died of natural causes and that the delays did not cause or contribute to her death.  She said:
<blockquote>
Sometimes we think about events, particularly stressful events and think about what we wish we had done. There are however stark differences in their statements.
‌I find it likely that first crew were told by Ms Sibanda that she was having an ectopic pregnancy. The first crew remained blindsided by her difficult presentation and made assumptions about the likely cause.
‌If they had been considering ectopic pregnancy, that would have focussed their minds more on getting her to hospital.
</blockquote>
During the inquest at Reading Coroner’s Court, Mrs Connor raised concerns about the defensive approach taken by the clinical governance lead at Phoenix, who claimed that there were no significant learning points from Stabile Sibanda’s death. She highlighted that those involved in contracting private providers should consider whether they are confident in the approach to learning taken by Phoenix.
The coroner noted that Ms Sibanda lived within a 20-minute drive from the nearest hospital, but she would have required quick surgery after reporting her condition. Therefore, the delays did not cause or contribute to her death, which was deemed to be due to natural causes.
Ms Sibanda had recently migrated to the UK from Zimbabwe to work as a nurse.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwean Pregnant Nurse Bleeds To Death After Ambulance Delay In UK

The Pretoria High Court has declared the decision by the Minister of Home Affairs to terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) programme as unlawful and unconstitutional. The court has directed the minister to reconsider the issue following a fair process that complies with relevant laws.
The judges said the minister made no attempt to solicit representations from those affected before he took the decision, rendering the decision procedurally unfair and irrational. They also said no attempt was made to assess the impact on ZEP holders and their children. They said:
<blockquote>
As a decision of this consequence impacts over 178,000 permit holders, it would have required proper information on who would be affected, to what degree and what measures were in place to ameliorate this impact.
It further requires a careful assessment of the current conditions in Zimbabwe.
Before this court, there is simply no admissible evidence from the Minister on whether he took these considerations into account and how.
</blockquote>
The case was brought by the Helen Suzman Foundation and the Consortium for Refugees and Migrants in South Africa after the minister announced the end of the programme in 2021.
<h3>What now?</h3>
The judges granted an interdict, stopping any action being taken against ZEP holders, pending a review of the minister’s decision.
Pending the outcome of that process, the permits will remain valid for another 12 months until the end of June 2024, and ZEP holders will be protected from arrest and deportation.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

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