Hundreds of Malawians seek repatriation as anti-immigrant protests surge in South Africa
Thousands of migrants seek help as deportations and xenophobic tensions escalate
Hundreds of Malawian nationals gathered outside Malawi’s embassy in Johannesburg on Tuesday, seeking assistance to return home amid growing anti-immigrant protests and a crackdown on undocumented migrants in South Africa.
Among those waiting for help was Bashil Austin, who appealed to the Malawian government to support citizens who no longer feel safe in South Africa.
More than 53,000 migrants sent home
South African authorities announced on Sunday that more than 53,000 African migrants had been deported or repatriated within a month.
According to South Africa’s justice minister, more than 80% of those returned were Malawian nationals. However, officials did not specify how many were forcibly deported and how many chose to return voluntarily.
Several African governments have organised transport to help their citizens leave South Africa as anti-immigrant sentiment continues to rise.
Deaths and rising tensions
South African police are investigating the deaths of at least three migrants—two from Mozambique and one from Malawi.
Nigeria has also claimed that two of its citizens were killed during anti-immigrant protests, although South African authorities dispute any connection between the deaths and the demonstrations.
The unrest has heightened concerns about xenophobia in South Africa and strained relations with several neighbouring countries.
Government tightens immigration policies
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently announced plans to strengthen border security and enforce immigration laws more aggressively.
He acknowledged growing public frustration over migration issues following protests by anti-migrant groups, which have claimed—without evidence—that undocumented migrants contribute to high unemployment and crime.
One of the largest protests took place on June 30, when anti-migrant groups demanded that undocumented foreigners leave the country, despite the government rejecting the deadline.
The demonstrations prompted thousands of Malawians in Durban to seek repatriation assistance.
A long-standing migration destination
South Africa has long attracted migrants from across Africa because of its relatively strong economy and employment opportunities. However, economic challenges and high unemployment have periodically fuelled tensions and outbreaks of xenophobia.
As deportations continue and concerns over migrant safety grow, calls are increasing for regional cooperation to address both migration and rising anti-immigrant sentiment.
