Zimbabweans struggle to rebuild after leaving South Africa
Thousands of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa are struggling to rebuild their lives after leaving amid fears of anti-immigrant hostility and violence.
Many returnees now face unemployment and financial hardship in Zimbabwe. Others are trying to use skills gained in South Africa to start businesses.
Al Jazeera reported that more than 116,000 Zimbabweans had returned from South Africa by late July, citing Zimbabwean government figures.
More than 116,000 Zimbabweans return
Zimbabwean Information Minister Zhemu Soda said 116,670 people had returned by July 28.
Of those, 36,940 received government assistance to return. Another 79,730 made the journey independently.
More than 38,000 returnees had also registered for employment.
The movement followed growing anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa ahead of a June 30 deadline announced by activists for undocumented migrants to leave.
The deadline was not imposed by the South African government. Authorities warned against intimidation and violence.
However, fears of unrest prompted thousands of migrants to leave.
Returnees face economic hardship
Al Jazeera spoke to several Zimbabweans about their experiences after returning home.
Samantha Chimbuya returned after living in South Africa since 2019. She told the outlet that raids and warnings targeting migrants had made her fear for her safety.
Back in Zimbabwe, she has struggled to find employment and relies on relatives and friends for support.
Reverend Useni Sibanda of the Zimbabwe Christian Alliance said many returnees face similar problems.
Some spent years abroad but returned without jobs, property or enough financial support to rebuild their lives.
Government outlines reintegration plans
Zimbabwean authorities say they are working to support returnees.
Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe said officials were identifying their skills and needs.
The government is also establishing reintegration centres and considering vocational training and support for small businesses.
Authorities are encouraging companies to employ skilled returnees. Qualified teachers could also be considered for jobs in schools.
Some churches and businesses are providing training in areas including carpentry, welding and computer skills.
Some returnees start businesses
For some Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, skills gained abroad have provided a path forward.
Al Jazeera highlighted the experience of Sidney Bunya, who returned after working as a carpenter in South Africa.
Before leaving, he bought tools and sent them to Zimbabwe.
Bunya then used his savings to establish a carpentry business. He told Al Jazeera that the business now supports his family and employs five people.
However, civil society figures say more long-term assistance is needed.
They have called for measures including business grants, agricultural support and vocational programmes to help returnees build sustainable livelihoods.