Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwean Government has come under increasing scrutiny after failing to airlift over 20 citizens stranded in Sierra Leone following a human trafficking ordeal. Despite mounting public pressure, the victims—lured to the West African nation with false promises of lucrative job opportunities—remain in dire conditions while awaiting assistance.
The victims were reportedly deceived by a human trafficking syndicate involving both a foreign entity and a local company, which exploited their desperation for employment. While a handful of survivors have managed to return home in recent weeks, including two placed in protective custody last week, several others remain trapped in Sierra Leone.
Government Appeals for International Assistance
In response to the worsening crisis, the Government has enlisted the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to coordinate efforts to bring back the stranded citizens. Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo confirmed the Government’s collaboration with the IOM but stopped short of providing a concrete timeline for their return.
“Right now, we have a situation in Sierra Leone, where our people were recruited there and they are being abused. While some have returned home, we still have others who are still out there,” Minister Moyo said.
The delay has sparked frustration among affected families and raised questions about Zimbabwe’s preparedness to handle similar crises.
Growing Concerns and Calls for Accountability
Critics argue that Zimbabwe’s response has been slow and reactive, with survivors reporting harrowing conditions and abuses while stranded. The lack of immediate action to secure their safe passage home has intensified public outcry, especially as other nations have managed to evacuate their citizens from similar situations.
A human rights advocate, speaking on condition of anonymity, criticized the lack of urgency:
“Every moment these victims remain stranded, they are at risk. Zimbabwe cannot afford to delay. The Government must prioritize securing flights and bringing these citizens home immediately.”
Raising Awareness Amid Trafficking Risks
The ordeal highlights a troubling trend of Zimbabweans falling prey to human trafficking syndicates amid economic challenges and unemployment. Minister Moyo emphasized the need to regulate recruitment agencies and educate citizens about the risks of irregular migration.
“Migration is beneficial, but it also comes with human trafficking challenges,” Minister Moyo said. “The Government is implementing measures to prevent such exploitation, including regulating recruitment agencies and working with international partners like the IOM.”
However, these measures offer little comfort to the families of those still stranded, as tangible action to secure their return remains elusive.
Previous Incidents Highlight Systemic Failures
The Sierra Leone case is not isolated. Minister Moyo referenced a similar incident in Kuwait, where Zimbabwean victims of trafficking faced prolonged suffering before their eventual return. These recurring failures underscore the systemic gaps in Zimbabwe’s ability to protect its citizens abroad and respond effectively to crises.
Unanswered Questions
While the Government’s collaboration with the IOM is a step forward, critics argue that a comprehensive evacuation plan is long overdue. Families are now demanding transparency and a clear commitment to ensure their loved ones return safely.
The continued delay in airlifting Zimbabweans trapped in Sierra Leone serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked human trafficking and the urgent need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable citizens.