BREAKING: The Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa has dismissed reports claiming it is offering free deportation transport for its citizens, urging nationals...
The Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa has dismissed reports claiming it is offering free deportation transport for its citizens, urging nationals instead to prioritise their safety amid rising anti-foreigner tensions.
In a formal statement, the embassy said circulating social media messages about “free buses” returning Zimbabweans home were false and misleading. Officials stressed that no such programme had been approved or initiated by the government.
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“The embassy would like to state, in the strongest terms, that this information is false, misleading, and not issued by any official authority,” the statement said.
The warning comes at a time when protests targeting foreign nationals have been reported in parts of South Africa, including Pretoria and Johannesburg. Demonstrators have called for the removal of undocumented migrants, raising concerns among foreign communities.
The embassy said these developments pose a serious risk to Zimbabweans living in South Africa and advised citizens to remain alert. It urged them to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and limit unnecessary movement.
Zimbabwean nationals were also encouraged to stay indoors where possible, carry identification documents at all times and report any threats to local authorities or Zimbabwean diplomatic offices.
Officials further urged citizens to rely only on verified communication channels from the embassy and avoid acting on unconfirmed social media information.
The situation follows renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals have previously been targeted during periods of economic and social pressure. Past incidents have included violence, displacement and loss of livelihoods among migrant communities.
Zimbabweans form one of the largest migrant groups in South Africa, with many having moved there for economic opportunities over the years.
The embassy reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare of Zimbabwean citizens abroad and said it is closely monitoring developments in coordination with local authorities.
Community organisations have also supported the advisory, urging Zimbabweans to take precautions and avoid confrontation as tensions remain high in some areas.
Authorities in South Africa have previously condemned xenophobic violence, but concerns remain as protests continue to emerge in different regions.
For now, Zimbabwean officials are focusing on safety awareness rather than evacuation, while monitoring the situation closely to respond if conditions worsen.
