Staff Reporter

Zimbabwean citizens have urged Government to take action as cases of scams orchestrated by unscrupulous travel agents over international jobs continue to rise, fleecing unsuspecting citizens of their hard earned money.

Several people who spoke to the Harare Post concurred that these agents promise lucrative opportunities abroad, enticing individuals with the prospects of better wages and improved living conditions.

Mary Nduta, a 28-year-old graduate, said, “I was promised a well-paying job in Dubai as a receptionist. I paid US$3500 upfront for visa processing and travel arrangements, only to discover upon arrival in Dubai that the job never existed. I was left stranded in a foreign country with no means of survival. I therefore urge the Government to take swift action in order to punish these culprits.”

John Ndoroma, a nurse, also recounted how he lost his life savings to a travel agent who had promised him a job in Canada.

“I was promised a high-paying job as a nurse in Canada. I invested all my savings in this opportunity, only to realise later that the agent had disappeared with my money. I am now left with nothing, struggling to make ends meet for my family. If the Government doesn’t intervene to stop these crooks, a number of people will surely lose their savings.”

Commentator, Prisca Chenjera said that the proliferation of these scams has raised concern among citizens and highlighted the need for stricter regulations governing the travel agency industry.

“Many victims later argue that the lack of oversight and accountability has allowed fraudulent agents to operate with impunity, preying on the hopes and aspirations of vulnerable individuals.

“Zimbabwe has seen an influx of citizens seeking jobs, mainly in the USA, UK, Australia and Canada. Government should put up more stringent measures to insulate its citizens from these bogus travel agents,” said Chenjera.

Chenjera added that there was need to foster patriotism among citizens, encouraging them to invest in their local communities and contribute to the nation’s development to bolster economic stability and national pride.

“By prioritising domestic employment opportunities and supporting local businesses, Zimbabweans can build a stronger, more resilient economy while safeguarding themselves from potential exploitation abroad,” added Chenjera.

In 2021, Government urged its citizens not to patronise or use the services of unregistered tourist and travel agents, as this may compromise their safety and well-being.