Malawi starts repatriation for citizens in South Africa

The Malawian government has initiated a voluntary repatriation program for its citizens in South Africa following weeks of violent attacks and demonstrations targeting African migrants. The formal announcement on June 2 came after vigilante actions spread across several provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the program is strictly for Malawian nationals who have formally requested government assistance to return home, with logistical details to be released once arrangements are finalized. Officials said the High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg are in close contact with diaspora leaders to assess the situation and provide support.

This move follows a significant exodus that began before the official announcement. Border records indicate 2,449 Malawians crossed back into Malawi through the Mwanza and Dedza posts in under three weeks, a surge immigration officials linked directly to the unrest. The government has warned its citizens in South Africa to beware of scammers posing as officials and to contact only the official diplomatic missions for assistance.