News Desk Reporter
The relocation of Zimbabwean nationals gathered outside the Zimbabwean Consulate in District Six began this morning.
The operation is being carried out through a coordinated effort involving the Department of Home Affairs and the Zimbabwean Consulate.
The process is being managed through the Home Affairs Repatriation Centre in Epping, which has been designated for the processing of voluntary repatriation in a controlled and structured environment.
The City of Cape Town said in a statement that the Epping facility is equipped to handle the process safely and humanely, given the number of people involved.
It will serve as the sole official site for processing before individuals are transported to Beit Bridge, the main border post between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
The city said that no repatriation applications will be processed at the consulate itself, and that individuals seeking voluntary return must proceed to the designated facility in Epping.
Safety and security services have been deployed to manage the relocation and maintain public order. Traffic officials are regulating access routes, while cleansing teams are assisting in the area.
The city said the relocation is aimed at improving coordination and reducing pressure in District Six, where large gatherings have formed in recent weeks.
It added that a structured approach is necessary to ensure safety for both residents and those being relocated.
Humanitarian organisations have been acknowledged for their support in assisting vulnerable individuals during the process, helping to ensure basic needs are met during the transition.
Members of the public have been urged to avoid the immediate vicinity of the consulate while the relocation continues, as congestion is expected throughout the day.
Emergency services remain on standby to respond to any incidents, and an emergency contact number has been provided for urgent assistance.
The city said the process is intended to be orderly, safe and humane, with all agencies working together to manage the movement of people effectively. Adding it remains committed to working with national departments and diplomatic representatives to ensure the relocation is handled in line with legal and humanitarian standards.
In recent weeks, the government said it has deported or repatriated approximately 9,000 Malawian nationals, 3,000 Zimbabwean nationals, 900 Ghanaian nationals and 300 Nigerian nationals, with the process continuing.