Zimbabwe repatriates 1 725 Mozambican refugee

The Government will today begin the voluntary repatriation of 1 724 Mozambican nationals who have been under international protection in Zimbabwe, marking the first such exercise since 1994 when more than 50 000 Mozambicans were returned home.

The repatriation involves refugees who have lived under international protection since December 2016. They will be transported from Tongogara Refugee Settlement to Mozambique through the Mt Selinda Border Post using hired buses.

During a visit to Tongogara on Wednesday, many of the Mozambican nationals were seen completing final documentation, with several expressing relief and anticipation at the prospect of returning home after years spent in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe last conducted a major repatriation exercise in 1994 following the signing of the 1992 Rome Agreement, which ended Mozambique's civil war between Frelimo and Renamo. At the time, refugees were repatriated from five camps: Tongogara, Chambuta, Nyangombe, Mazowe Riverbridge and Nyamatiki.

Officials say the current process is intended to bring closure to Mozambican nationals who have lived in Zimbabwe for decades, giving them an opportunity to rebuild their lives in their country of origin.

Tongogara Refugee Settlement administrator Mr Johane Mhlanga said most of those being repatriated come from Espungabeira, Chirera and Chikwekwete in Mozambique's Mousirize District.

"They came to Zimbabwe following military disturbances by Renamo bandits. All the individuals due for repatriation have been staying at Tongogara Refugee Settlement, coexisting peacefully with refugees and asylum seekers from more than 15 countries," said Mr Mhlanga. He added that the Mozambicans had been included in self-reliance and livelihood programmes in line with the Government's inclusive refugee policy.

Tongogara currently hosts 12 956 refugees and asylum seekers.

Mr Mhlanga said the repatriation process is being carried out in line with agreed intergovernmental procedures to ensure safety and dignity.

"To facilitate smooth repatriation, the Government engaged the Republic of Mozambique through diplomatic channels. The two governments agreed to work together throughout the process. Buses and trucks have been secured to transport the people and their belongings," he said.

He dismissed reports that some Mozambican nationals were reluctant to return home, insisting that all had volunteered for repatriation.

"That is not true. All the Mozambicans have expressed their willingness for voluntary repatriation. They are excited to go back home," he said, adding that voluntary repatriation remains one of the most sustainable solutions to refugee situations globally.

Several Mozambicans interviewed at the settlement welcomed the development.

Mr Aleck Khosa (28), who arrived at Tongogara in 2017, said he was eager to start afresh in a peaceful environment.

"I left Mozambique in 2016 when disturbances affected our area. I later reunited with my family here at Tongogara. I am happy to go back to my country as long as there is peace, and I trust the authorities that conditions have improved," he said.

Mr Simon Tito Simango (48) said he fled Mozambique in 2017 during a period of political violence.

"We had no choice but to leave at the time. It was frightening. We are happy to be going back home and hope that arrangements have been made for us to reintegrate into our communities after being away for so long," he said.

Another returnee, Mr Tichaona Simango (33), said the memories of the violence that forced him to flee were still difficult to process, but he remained hopeful about returning home.

"Even as I return, I am still affected by what happened back then. But I want to move forward and rebuild my life now that there is peace," he said.

Authorities say the repatriation exercise reflects continued cooperation between Zimbabwe and Mozambique and underscores the Government's commitment to durable solutions for refugees.