Harare, Zimbabwe — A Zimbabwean civic movement is urging the South African government to repatriate 200 undocumented migrants currently detained in Robertson, Western Cape.
The activists, led by Lovemore Maphorisa, have expressed concerns over the migrants’welfare, noting that they are facing inadequate food and medication in police custody. Maphorisa highlighted the plight of the migrants, many of whom have paid fines but remain in custody. He emphasized the need for alternatives, such as self-deportation, to alleviate their suffering. “.
Most of them are breadwinners, “he. “They are struggling with food, sometimes receiving only one meal per day, and some are on medication. “.
The activists have also brought food to the migrants, but faced challenges at some police stations.
The movement is calling on the government to consider repatriation options to improve the migrants’conditions. This call for action comes amidst a broader context of immigration challenges between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The South African government has previously requested African states to cover repatriation expenses for 80,000 undocumented citizens, indicating the scale of the immigration crisis.
The Zimbabwean civic movement’s advocacy for the immediate repatriation of the detained migrants underscores the urgency of addressing the human cost of immigration policies.
As discussions between the governments of South Africa and Zimbabwe continue, the activists hope for a solution that prioritizes the well — being and rights of the affected individuals.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Siya Tsewu
