Zimbabwe’s military and police have arrested scores of opposition members and activists after authorities thwarted an anti-government protest last week. 

The crackdown has sparked international outrage with #ZimbabweanLivesMatter being created in solidarity. 

On Tuesday, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) initiated talks with the embattled state. 

“The South African government has noted with concern the reports that are emanating from Zimbabwe relating to the humanitarian situation in that country,” says Dirco spokesperson, Lunga Ngqengelele. 

“It was Minister (Naledi) Pandor who actually called the Minister in Zimbabwe wanting to find out more about these reports we are seeing in the media, so the conversation was about the minister finding out as well offering support if requested by Zimbabwe.” 

He adds that two ministers also discussed South Africa’s state of readiness, should it be called to lend a hand in Zimbabwe. 

“You will remember that Zimambwe as a sovereign country will have to ask South Africa to assist otherwise we take out guide and mandate from the multilateral organisations that we are part of and which are mandated to solve issues that are similar to the one that is in Zimbabwe currently.” 

There have been concerns that some Zimbabweans will cross the border into the country to seek refuge, but Ngqengelele says there’s no certainty that will happen. 

“Unfortunately, I cannot talk about something that is said that it might be likely. We only deal with issues that are happening. Currently, the issue is to try and assist if we are requested by Zimbabwe to assist.” 

Jacaranda FM