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The Democratic Alliance (DA) is gravely concerned about the indifference with which the provincial executive is treating the imminent humanitarian crisis unfolding at the Beitbridge border.

The Beitbridge border post has been overwhelmed by an influx of Zimbabwean citizens since the Zimbabwean authorities banned international travel since 4 January 2021.

Scores of people are now trying to enter South Africa both legally and illegally.

The influx has created a massive backlog in the processing of documentation and COVID-19 testing and screening which resulted in hundreds of people, many not wearing masks, crammed together without social distancing.

People have to wait up to 3 days and longer to be processed. In desperation they are sleeping in the bushes and on the side of the road whilst waiting to be assisted. Food and water are not readily available.

The lack of facilities and water to practice adequate hygiene exacerbate the situation.

The lack of dignity and undermining of human rights of immigrants entering at Beitbridge must be addressed.

Limpopo is currently experiencing a devastating second COVID-19 wave with 6318 active cases, a stark increase from the 295 active cases recorded 1 month ago.

We are concerned that this congestion, which categorises as a super spreader, will have devastating consequences and put further strain on Limpopo’s poor and below average health services.

Premier Stanley Mathabatha and his executive last met on 10 December 2020 despite the incubating crisis on our doorstep.

We urge Premier Mathabatha to convene the executive and to establish quarantine facilities and a field hospital at the border post with immediate effect.

As the host province to immigrants entering at Beitbridge border, it is the duty of the Limpopo government to not only protect the people of South Africa from more COVID infections, but also to ensure that immigrants and visitors are treated with dignity.

Issued by DA