Hundreds of Malawians have been repatriated from South Africa amid growing concerns over xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals. Authoriti
Hundreds of Malawians have been repatriated from South Africa amid growing concerns over xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals.
Authorities in Lilongwe confirmed that buses carrying returnees arrived over the weekend, with many of the passengers recounting harrowing experiences of intimidation, assaults, and threats in South African communities.
The government said the move was necessary to safeguard citizens as tensions escalated in parts of Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the decision to facilitate repatriation followed reports of Malawians being attacked and their businesses looted.
Officials stressed that while South Africa remains a key destination for Malawian migrant workers, the safety of nationals could not be compromised.
Civil society groups in Malawi have also welcomed the move, urging authorities to provide reintegration support for those returning home, many of whom left behind jobs and livelihoods.
The xenophobic unrest in South Africa has drawn condemnation from regional leaders and organisations, who warn that such violence undermines African unity and economic cooperation.
Malawi’s government has called for stronger protection of migrants across the continent and emphasised the need for dialogue to address the root causes of hostility.
For the returnees, however, the immediate priority is rebuilding their lives back home, with many expressing relief at escaping danger but uncertainty about their prospects.
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