Last week, Government informed that the strategic decision would address the long-standing challenges faced by Zimbabweans abroad, who previously had to undertake time-consuming and costly trips back to their homeland to secure or renew essential documents.
Rennie Matondo, a member of the Zimbabwean community in South Africa, conveyed his sentiments to the Harare Post via telephone.
"This is nothing short of a game-changer. Many of us faced the financial strain and inconvenience of traveling back to Zimbabwe, sometimes just to renew a document or obtain an identity card for a child. This new provision not only alleviates those burdens but also fortifies our connection to our Zimbabwean roots,” said Matondo.
Rudo Chitiga, another Zimbabwean based in South Africa, also underscored the transformative nature of this move.
“My experiences involved the painstaking process of commuting to Zimbabwe every time my passport neared its expiration. Such trips were not just heavy on the pocket, but they were also logistically cumbersome. Now, with this new facility in Johannesburg, renewals can be managed locally, which is infinitely more accessible and practical,” added Chitiga.
The Zimbabwean Government has earmarked early 2024 for the official opening of these service centres. Chosen for its strategic significance, Johannesburg will host these hubs, ensuring they are easily accessible to the largest number of people.
Designed to operate within standard business hours, these centres will cater for various needs ranging from first-time applications for passports and identity cards to renewals and replacements for lost or damaged documents.
Political commentator, Paidamoyo Mutsvairo said that this initiative was a testament to the Zimbabwean Government's commitment to serving its citizens, regardless of their location.
“With an increasing number of Zimbabweans making a home in South Africa, such services are not just convenient but also essential. The establishment of the passport and ID service centres in Johannesburg reiterates the Government's dedication to keeping its promises and underscores its recognition of the importance of providing seamless services to its global citizens,” said Mutsvairo.
