The Zimbabwean Government has enlisted the support of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to repatriate over 20 Zimbabweans believed to be stranded in Sierra Leone after falling victim to a human trafficking syndicate.
The syndicate reportedly lured its victims with false promises of high-paying jobs abroad.
Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister, July Moyo, confirmed the situation in his weekly column in The Sunday Mail, stating that while some victims have returned, many remain trapped in Sierra Leone. He revealed that the Government is collaborating with IOM to ensure the safe return of those still stranded.
“Right now, we have a situation in Sierra Leone where our people were recruited and are being abused,” Minister Moyo said. “While some have returned home, others remain out there. We also had similar cases in Kuwait, and we are working with the IOM to repatriate our citizens.”
Two survivors returned to Zimbabwe last week and were placed under protective custody, where they revealed that more victims are still in Sierra Leone. In addition, seven Zimbabweans reportedly returned home last month. Authorities estimate that as many as 40 individuals may have been affected by the trafficking network, which allegedly involves both foreign entities and local companies.
To prevent similar cases in the future, Minister Moyo emphasized the Government’s commitment to regulating recruitment agencies and raising public awareness on the dangers of irregular migration. He highlighted the risks of informal migration channels, which often expose job seekers to exploitation and trafficking.
“Efforts are underway to regulate recruitment agencies and raise public awareness to prevent exploitation,” he stated.
The Minister also disclosed that Zimbabwe is exploring agreements with Middle Eastern countries to combat human trafficking, similar to existing arrangements in Ethiopia and Kenya.
As the Government intensifies its efforts, partnerships with international organizations like IOM remain crucial in repatriating victims and preventing future cases of human trafficking.
