By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
THE Government of Zimbabwe has repatriated 660 citizens from South Africa as concerns grow over a recent wave of anti-immigrant protests and xenophobic violence in the neighbouring country.
In a statement posted on his official X account, the Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Ndabaningi “Nick” Mangwana, said the government remains committed to assisting all Zimbabweans wishing to return home.
“The Government of Zimbabwe, like any administration that truly values its people, holds the safety and well-being of its nationals as a matter of deepest concern. To date, we have been able to repatriate 660 of our citizens from South Africa, and we remain committed to supporting all those who wish to return home. If you or someone you know requires assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our embassy and consulates. We will leave no one behind,” Mangwana wrote.
The repatriations come against the backdrop of escalating anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa, where foreign nationals have increasingly been targeted during protests linked to concerns over unemployment, crime and illegal immigration.
South African authorities have condemned acts of violence against migrants, while President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for immigration laws to be enforced through legal channels rather than vigilante action.
Recent reports indicate that attacks and intimidation directed at foreign nationals have displaced thousands of migrants and strained diplomatic relations between South Africa and several African countries.
At least five deaths have been linked to the unrest, while many migrants have reported losing businesses, homes and livelihoods.
Zimbabwe is among several African nations that have launched repatriation programmes in response to the deteriorating security situation.
Ghana has repatriated hundreds of its citizens, with reports indicating that more than 600 Ghanaians have returned home through coordinated evacuation efforts.
Nigeria has also organized evacuation flights, with more than 1,000 citizens reportedly registering for voluntary return. The first repatriation flight carried 262 Nigerians back to Lagos, while South African authorities said 586 Nigerian nationals had been processed for repatriation.
Other countries, including Malawi and Mozambique, have similarly taken steps to assist citizens wishing to leave South Africa amid safety concerns.
Analysts warn that the latest unrest risks damaging South Africa’s standing across the continent and could have wider economic and diplomatic repercussions if tensions continue to escalate.
South African Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi recently acknowledged that xenophobic attacks were harming the country’s international image and undermining pan-African solidarity.
For Zimbabwe, the government says its priority remains the welfare of citizens abroad, with officials continuing to work through diplomatic missions to facilitate the safe return of those seeking assistance.