BREAKING: A Zimbabwean civic organisation has called on the government to help repatriate citizens affected by what it describes as a growing humanitarian cr...
A Zimbabwean civic organisation has called on the government to help repatriate citizens affected by what it describes as a growing humanitarian crisis in South Africa following recent attacks and reported evictions.
The Civic Engagement Forum of Zimbabwe says at least 146 Zimbabwean nationals have been displaced in Daggafontein, Springs, on the East Rand. The organisation says the affected individuals are facing uncertainty and require urgent assistance.
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According to the group, many of the displaced Zimbabweans have allegedly been given until June 15 by some community members to leave the area. The organisation claims that some residents have been subjected to harassment and pressure to relocate.
The forum warned that the situation could worsen if intervention is not provided. It said there are concerns over further displacement and the safety of those affected.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Ambassador General Sithole said the problems escalated following operations conducted by authorities targeting illegal mining activities in the area.
“These people were evicted, some of them by the landlord. This happened after the raid, which was done by the officials to combat the issues of illegal mining and everything, but after that, people started to take advantage, knocking on the doors of the foreigners and kicking them out and all those sort of stuff,” said Sithole.
He added that some of the affected individuals had been left without accommodation and were now living in difficult conditions.
“To the fact that some are now staying in the bushes,” Sithole said.
The organisation says many of the displaced Zimbabweans are struggling to find alternative shelter and support while facing uncertainty about their future in the area.
Sithole said the forum was engaging the Zimbabwean government to assist citizens who wish to return home voluntarily. According to the organisation, repatriation could provide immediate relief for some of the affected individuals.
“We are trying to engage and coerce the government of Zimbabwe to actually help with the self-repatriation of the voluntary in that area and most of the affected people,” he said.
The call comes amid concerns about the welfare of Zimbabwean nationals living in the affected community. The forum says government support will be important in addressing the needs of displaced citizens and ensuring their safety.
The organisation maintains that urgent action is needed to prevent further hardship among those affected and to provide assistance to Zimbabweans who may wish to return to their home country.
