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SOUTH AFRICA: Siniukai Madondo, "We were thinking when we came off the train we'd find jobs"
12 Mar 2009 18:21:18 GMT
 Source: IRIN

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JOHANNESBURG, 12 March 2009 (IRIN) - The South African government's decision last week to close down a refugee reception centre at the showgrounds in Musina, near the border with Zimbabwe, has prompted many Zimbabweans to head south to Johannesburg in the hope of finding employment and shelter.

Siniukai Madondo, 19, arrived from Musina two days ago and has been at the crowded Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg. He spoke to IRIN about his journey.

"Back home [in Zimbabwe] we are not finding jobs; so many people come to this country. My father died when I was eight years old, my mother when I was 10. In my family, we are eight. I don't have brothers who are working so I was trying to help [in place of] my parents – I [thought] to come to South Africa.

"When I was coming from Zimbabwe to the South African side we were walking on foot, crossing the Limpopo River, and we met with robbers. I was afraid.

"I was wearing my shoes but they took them and gave me these [rubber sandals]. Even the clothes I am wearing are not mine, the robbers made us to exchange clothes.

"When we arrived at Musina, we stayed with Save the Children [an international NGO] and we were staying very well – food, shelter – we were given everything, even toothbrushes.

"They gave us some papers, and helped us – those who were staying at the showgrounds - to go to [the South African Department of] Home Affairs to apply for asylum.

"I came here to Johannesburg by train. On the train, we heard people who were talking about the Methodist Church, so when we arrived we confirmed where the church was.

"Today and yesterday, we were looking for jobs. But where can I get a job? We are loitering around. Yesterday, we slept outside. I don't think I will sleep inside [the crowded church] tonight; my aim is to go back.

"Other people who stay at this place, I don't have an idea what they do, because in the morning they wake and go out, so I don't know where they're going. They are too busy to tell you.

"We were thinking that when we came off the train, we'd find some jobs. We didn't. The life in South Africa is too good for those who have education, but if you don't ... it's better to go back to Zimbabwe, because in this country there is nothing."

llg/oa/he

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