Zapu president Mathew Sibanda meets SA returnees
Staff Reporter
BULAWAYO: Zapu President Mathew Sibanda visited the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) reception center in Bulawayo’s Njube high-density suburb on Friday. The center is welcoming, screening, and assisting Zimbabweans returning from South Africa before they travel to their respective destinations across the country.
Most of the returnees are from the Matabeleland provinces, and the center is experiencing a steady influx of people arriving by bus. Various government departments, including the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, have set up temporary offices at the church to facilitate the registration, screening, and coordination of assistance for the returnees.
The UCCSA church is providing accommodation, meals, and other logistical support to those passing through the transit center. During his visit, UCCSA Pastor Kelvin Mpofu stated that the church is appealing for food supplies and other essential items as the number of returnees continues to rise.
“On average, we receive about three buses carrying returnees every day. The church is doing its best to provide accommodation and food. Still, we are appealing to well-wishers, organizations, and anyone able to assist with foodstuffs and other necessities,” Pastor Mpofu said in an interview with The Sun.
He also noted that during the height of the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which occurred about two weeks ago, the center handled significantly larger numbers of returnees.
“For administrative and policy-related matters, government officials stationed at the center are better placed to comment,” he added.
After touring the facility and interacting with church officials, Sibanda praised the church for providing humanitarian assistance to Zimbabweans in need.
“It is encouraging to see the church stepping in to provide shelter, food, and hope to our fellow citizens during what is undoubtedly a very difficult period in their lives,” Sibanda remarked.
“This work demonstrates the importance of compassion and solidarity. These are our brothers and sisters who have returned home under challenging circumstances, and they deserve to be treated with dignity.”
Sibanda urged the government, churches, businesses, and humanitarian organizations to collaborate to ensure that returning citizens receive adequate support.
“The burden should not rest on the church alone. This is a national responsibility that requires a collective effort. We need to mobilize resources so that families arriving here have access to food, healthcare, counseling, and safe transportation to their homes,” he explained.
He also emphasized the need for long-term measures to create sustainable livelihoods for returnees.
“Many of these Zimbabweans left the country in search of economic opportunities. As a nation, we must create an environment where our people can earn a decent living at home. Reintegration should not end with transport assistance; it should also include opportunities for employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship,” Sibanda stated.
Additionally, he expressed sympathy for families affected by displacement and urged Zimbabweans to welcome returnees without prejudice.
“Every Zimbabwean deserves a chance to rebuild their life. We should embrace those returning home and help them reintegrate into their communities. Together, we can restore hope and ensure that no one is left behind,” Sibanda concluded.
