Returnees vow never to return to South Africa

Some Zimbabweans returning from South Africa have vowed never to return, describing their experiences as traumatic and warning that the departure of thousands of foreign workers could create labour shortages on South African commercial farms.

Speaking at the reception centre run by the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) in Njube, Bulawayo, on Thursday, several returnees who arrived on Wednesday evening said many farms in South Africa relied heavily on foreign labour, particularly Zimbabweans.

The latest arrivals form part of a growing number of Zimbabweans returning home following heightened anti-migrant tensions in parts of South Africa.

Wiseman Mlilo, from Tshefunye in Tsholotsho, said he lost almost everything after being forced to flee from Limpopo Province with little warning.

"I will never go back to South Africa. What I went through was traumatising. I left my belongings, including sofas, a refrigerator and bicycles, and they were all looted because I had no time to prepare," he said.

A qualified builder and tiler, Mlilo said the exodus of foreign workers could have consequences for South Africa's agricultural sector.

"My fear is that while we may have been chased away, this move will affect the South African economy sooner rather than later. White farmers were left staring at their farms without anyone to attend to them," he said.

Another returnee, Bancgwele Sibanda from Plumtree, said he had no intention of returning to South Africa.

"I am a welder, so I would rather find work here at home or, if I receive financial assistance, start my own small business," he said.

Sibanda said he returned with only a single bag containing a few clothes.

"There was no time to pack our things," he said.

Brighton Ncube from Ntabazinduna, who had been living in Polokwane since 2008, said although he came back with nothing, he was relieved to be home.

"Home is always best. I went to South Africa in 2008 but came back with nothing. I have no identity documents. I informed the officials here, but they just wrote my name down and did not explain how I would obtain those documents," he said.

The Zimbabwean government, working with churches, humanitarian organisations and other partners, is providing temporary accommodation, meals and other essential assistance to returnees while arrangements are made to transport them to their respective home areas.

Authorities have also indicated that support will extend beyond the initial reception phase, with plans to introduce empowerment programmes and livelihood initiatives aimed at helping returnees rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.

The returnees' accounts come amid continued anti-migrant tensions in parts of South Africa, which have displaced thousands of foreign nationals and prompted regional governments to step up efforts to assist affected citizens returning home.