27 Minors Working As Zama Zamas To Be Safely Repatriated To Mozambique

Authorities acted promptly in accordance with the Children’s Act, which mandates that any child at risk must be placed in a secure and protective environment. Spokesperson Petrus Siko confirmed that social workers took immediate steps to safeguard the children and coordinate their repatriation process.

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Repatriation Process and Coordination

At midnight on Tuesday, social workers, accompanied by police escorts, began the journey to repatriate the 27 minors to Mozambique through the Lebombo border post. This process followed judicial approval, which authorized the release of the children from their temporary safe care facilities.

The Mozambican Consulate facilitated the repatriation by issuing temporary travel documents. The process was further supported by a collaborative effort between social development departments in South Africa and Mozambique, along with assistance from the International Social Workers Services.

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Official Response and Stakeholder Contributions

Basetsana Sussana Dantjie, the MEC for Social Development in North West, expressed her gratitude to all parties involved for their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the children. She acknowledged the efforts of her team and the swift action taken by the Mozambican consulate.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all stakeholders who contributed to this mission. Ensuring the protection of these vulnerable children remains our top priority, and we appreciate the expedited repatriation process facilitated by the Mozambican authorities.” – MEC Basetsana Sussana Dantjie