The Zimbabwean Government has partnered with the IOM to repatriate over 20 citizens stranded in Sierra Leone due to human trafficking. Minister July Moyo highlighted efforts to regulate recruitment agencies and enhance public awareness about the risks of trafficking. The government aims to combat human trafficking through international agreements and partnerships while ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The Government of Zimbabwe has initiated a collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to facilitate the repatriation of over 20 Zimbabweans stranded in Sierra Leone. These individuals are victims of a human trafficking scheme that misled them with deceptive promises of lucrative employment opportunities. In light of this situation, the Zimbabwean administration is intensifying its efforts to regulate recruitment agencies and promote public awareness concerning the hazards of human trafficking.
Two survivors from the trafficking network returned to Zimbabwe last week, prompting government officials to place them in protective custody. During discussions, they indicated that additional victims remain in Sierra Leone. Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister, July Moyo, confirmed this troubling scenario in his recent communication published in The Sunday Mail.
“Right now, we have a situation in Sierra Leone, where our people were recruited there and they are being abused,” stated Minister Moyo. He detailed that while some victims have returned, others remain at risk. Similar occurrences were noted in Kuwait, where the government is also coordinating repatriation efforts with the IOM.
Minister Moyo expressed the intention of Zimbabwe to forge agreements with Middle Eastern countries focused on combating human trafficking. He compared this initiative to existing agreements implemented by countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya. Furthermore, he pointed out the dual nature of migration—while it can provide economic prospects, it poses considerable risks of human trafficking when individuals pursue employment through unregulated channels.
In response to these alarming issues, the Zimbabwean Government is prioritizing public education regarding the dangers of irregular migration. Minister Moyo reiterated that actions are underway to regulate recruitment agencies alongside increased public awareness initiatives aimed at preventing exploitation.
“Efforts are underway to regulate recruitment agencies and raise public awareness to prevent exploitation,” he noted. Collaborating with international organizations like the IOM has proven critical in successfully repatriating victims and reinforcing protective measures against human trafficking.
Recently, in addition to the two survivors, seven other Zimbabweans reportedly returned to their homeland last month. Estimates suggest that up to 40 individuals could have fallen victim to the trafficking ring operating in Sierra Leone. The Zimbabwean Government remains committed to working alongside global partners to address these pressing issues, ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad.
Human trafficking remains a significant concern worldwide, particularly affecting vulnerable populations seeking better employment opportunities. Zimbabwe has faced challenges with citizens being preyed upon by trafficking syndicates that promise lucrative jobs abroad. The collaboration with the IOM signifies a strategic response to these challenges, aiming to not only aid in repatriation efforts but also enhance preventive measures through education and regulatory frameworks regarding recruitment agencies. The government’s proactive stance indicates a commitment to safeguarding its citizens from the perils associated with irregular migration.
In conclusion, the Zimbabwean Government, in partnership with the IOM, is taking decisive action to repatriate citizens stranded as victims of human trafficking in Sierra Leone. The collaboration aims to enhance regulatory oversight of recruitment agencies and raise public awareness about the risks of human trafficking. This initiative reflects a larger commitment to ensure the safety of Zimbabweans abroad and to safeguard against exploitation in the context of global migration.
Original Source: bulawayo24.com
