The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade has called on Zimbabwean relatives and friends to assist in identifying deceased persons from the tragic Operation Vala Umgodi incident at Stilfontein Mine in the North West Province of South Africa, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The operation, which took place between August 2024 and January 2025, resulted in the unfortunate loss of lives, leaving several unidentified bodies in South African mortuaries.
In a press statement, Mrs. Philiswe Chidawanyika, Director of Public Diplomacy, Communication, and Advocacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, emphasized the need for Zimbabwean citizens with missing relatives or friends in South Africa to come forward.
“We are calling on all Zimbabweans who suspect that their relatives or friends may have been victims of this tragedy to assist the Government by providing information that could help identify the deceased,” said Mrs. Chidawanyika.
The Zimbabwean Government has taken steps to facilitate the identification process for affected families. Those in Zimbabwe are encouraged to visit their nearest Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) station or the Provincial/District Social Welfare Offices of the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare. Zimbabweans in South Africa can seek assistance from the Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg.
Family members are urged to bring along photographs, medical or dental records, identification documents, or any distinguishing details that may help confirm the identities of the deceased.
Mrs. Chidawanyika assured the public that the Government is fully committed to supporting families during this difficult time, stating, “The Government of Zimbabwe is dedicated to assisting all affected families in identifying their loved ones and ensuring that the remains are repatriated for a dignified burial.”
As Zimbabwean families continue to cope with the aftermath of this tragic incident, the Government remains steadfast in its efforts to ensure that the deceased are properly identified and that their families receive the necessary support to lay them to rest.
