
The Zimbabwean government has issued an appeal for additional support from development partners, churches, and the private sector to facilitate the safe return of its nationals from South Africa. This initiative follows recent targeted attacks against black immigrants in South Africa, leaving many Zimbabweans gathered at various centers. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, are coordinating efforts to ensure a safe and dignified return for affected citizens. Assistance being mobilized includes food provisions, temporary shelter, and transportation from South Africa to designated reception centers in Zimbabwe. The government is also utilizing its Emergency Fund to support these humanitarian response efforts. Several organizations have already joined the response, and the ministry welcomes further contributions from the private sector, humanitarian agencies, NGOs, and other well-wishers to strengthen repatriation and other Civil Protection activities. Preparations are underway to receive returnees at ports of entry and facilitate their reintegration into communities, emphasizing a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to this escalating situation.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.

National Foods announced a US$23 million boost to power its growth. This financial update comes as the manufacturer reported a decline in volumes for its exports and paper divisions, which fell by 6% and 26% respectively, during the third quarter ending June 2022. The company's operations have also been impacted by power outages and raw material shortages.
Must ReadRecent news from Zimbabwe covers a range of topics including concerns over new mining rules potentially costing the country US$600 million annually, and the Zanu PF facing legal challenges related to CAB 3, which is also impacting the economic outlook. Other reports mention a rabbit feed crisis, an ambassador supporting rabbit exports to African markets, and Zimbabwe's efforts to secure a US$25 million climate recovery boost. Political tensions are noted at grasslands plots, leading to violent attacks and forced evictions. The VFEX is reported to show stability despite underlying value concerns. Additionally, the article touches on Zimbabwean football, a mortuary breakdown causing community distress, and Ipec being congratulated on 20 years of regulatory excellence in the insurance and pensions sector.
Must ReadZimbabweans residing in South Africa are urged to participate in consultations regarding the future of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit ZEP as the extended deadline approaches. South Africa's Department of Home Affairs initiated these consultations following a court ruling that temporarily halted the termination of the ZEP program. Ngqabutho Mabhena, executive director of the African Diaspora Forum and chairperson of the Zimbabwe Community in South Africa, expressed concern over the low number of submissions received so far, which also includes those for the Lesotho Exemption Permit LEP. As of June 18, the Department of Home Affairs had received 21,520 email submissions and 30,924 completed online questionnaires for both ZEP and LEP holders. Mabhena confirmed that the submission deadline has been extended from June 23 to June 30, 2026, to allow more time for individuals struggling with the submission process. Community activists are assisting applicants, but are overwhelmed by requests for help. The consultations are a result of a June 2023 Pretoria High Court ruling that declared the decision to terminate the ZEP program unlawful and ordered that ZEP holders remain in South Africa during a proper consultative process. Recommendations on the future of both ZEP and LEP programs are expected to be submitted to Cabinet by March 31, 2027. This process occurs amid heightened anxiety among foreign nationals in South Africa due to sporadic xenophobic violence.