The Government of Zimbabwe is collaborating with the IOM to repatriate over 20 Zimbabweans stranded in Sierra Leone, victims of human trafficking. As efforts intensify to regulate recruitment agencies and issue public warnings about trafficking, two survivors have returned home, revealing ongoing dangers for others. Minister July Moyo confirmed the government’s initiatives and ongoing collaborations aimed at combating human trafficking, while plans to formalize agreements with Middle Eastern countries are also in discussions.
The Government of Zimbabwe has sought collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to aid in the repatriation of over 20 Zimbabwean citizens who are reportedly stranded in Sierra Leone due to a human trafficking syndicate. These individuals had been lured by deceptive promises of lucrative employment opportunities. The government is currently intensifying efforts to regulate recruitment agencies and raise awareness regarding the perils of human trafficking, particularly in light of recent revelations from two survivors who spoke of additional victims still trapped abroad.
In a recent communication, Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo provided updates in his weekly column, indicating that the government is actively working with the IOM to facilitate the safe return of the affected citizens. “Right now, we have a situation in Sierra Leone, where our people were recruited there and they are being abused,” Minister Moyo remarked. He further noted that while some individuals have successfully returned, a significant number remain stranded in Sierra Leone, echoing a similar situation witnessed in Kuwait where the IOM is involved in repatriation efforts.
Minister Moyo also disclosed intentions to formalize agreements with Middle Eastern nations to combat human trafficking more effectively. He observed, “Countries like Ethiopia and Kenya now have agreements with Middle Eastern countries to deal with these cases, and we are looking at those agreements to see whether we can extend them to Southern Africa and to Zimbabwe in particular.”
The Minister underscored that while migration may provide various economic opportunities, it also poses substantial risks related to human trafficking, especially when individuals pursue employment unlawfully. To address these concerns, the Zimbabwean government is prioritizing education on the hazards of irregular migration and ensuring that adequate protective measures are in place to prevent exploitation. Minister Moyo additionally reaffirmed, “Efforts are underway to regulate recruitment agencies and raise public awareness to prevent exploitation.”
As part of ongoing efforts, it was reported that, in addition to the two survivors recently returned, seven additional Zimbabweans made their way home last month. Nevertheless, estimates suggest that approximately 40 individuals may have fallen victim to this trafficking syndicate in Sierra Leone. The Zimbabwean government is steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with international partners to effectively address and mitigate such troubling occurrences for the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
The alarming issue of human trafficking has increasingly drawn the attention of governments and international organizations worldwide. The lure of fraudulent job opportunities has resulted in many individuals falling victim to trafficking syndicates, which exploit vulnerable populations for forced labor or other forms of abuse. Zimbabwe’s engagement with the IOM highlights a proactive approach to safeguard its citizens and demonstrates an understanding of the necessity for regulatory measures and preventative educational campaigns aimed at curbing human trafficking.
In conclusion, the Government of Zimbabwe, in partnership with the IOM, is actively working to repatriate its citizens stranded in Sierra Leone due to human trafficking. The government’s initiatives to regulate recruitment agencies and raise public awareness about the dangers of human trafficking are critical steps in combating this pervasive issue. Continued collaboration with international bodies and the implementation of protective measures are imperative to ensure the safety and well-being of Zimbabweans abroad.
Original Source: bulawayo24.com
