At Beitbridge Border Post, the average weekly return of Zimbabwean corpses from South Africa has increased dramatically—by 100.
Due to this rush, the Port Health facility at the border was renovated, swapping out its antiquated moveable containers with new infrastructure that is more suited to handle the influx.
These developments were revealed by Port Health Officer Ms. Silibiziso Nkala during a recent media tour that was arranged by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
She emphasised that the returned human remains, which are often received on Fridays and Saturdays, are now subject to routine inspections and respectful management at the new isolated facility.
“This upgrade is necessary due to the volume of bodies that are being repatriated from South Africa on a weekly basis,” Ms. Nkala said. “The facility’s state-of-the-art equipment enables comprehensive inspections and adherence to health regulations.”
She underlined the difficulties in making sure that, even being buried, human remains are not utilised to transport products across borders. Ms. Nkala said, “We have tightened measures to prevent misuse of this process.”
Zimbabweans who have been repatriated have a variety of causes of death, including violence, accidents, and chronic illnesses.
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The facility also handles the bodies of truck drivers and crew members who pass away while crossing Zimbabwe.
In order to proceed with repatriation proceedings, documentation from the Consulate, identifying documents of the dead, and clearance from the Ministry of Health and Child Care are required.
These steps are intended to protect health standards and make it easier for loved ones to return home.
Renovating the Port Health facility at Beitbridge Border Post is a big step towards addressing the growing number of bodies being returned home, making sure that people are treated with respect and that international health regulations are followed even in difficult situations.
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