Malawi has announced plans to repatriate its citizens wishing to leave South Africa following reports of attacks targeting African migrants in several parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the repatriation programme will initially be limited to Malawian nationals who have formally requested assistance. Further details will be released once logistical arrangements have been completed.
Xenophobic violence remains a recurring challenge in South Africa, where immigrants are frequently blamed for economic difficulties, including high unemployment levels.
Tensions have intensified after anti-immigrant groups issued a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country, increasing anxiety among migrant communities.
Mozambique recently reported that five of its citizens were killed during violent incidents in the coastal town of Mossel Bay, while Ghana repatriated hundreds of its nationals last week in response to growing security concerns.
South African authorities have pledged to take action against individuals and groups responsible for inciting or carrying out violence against migrants. Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed that although addressing illegal immigration is important, it should not be pursued through “violence, xenophobia or vigilantism.”
As Africa’s largest economy, South Africa remains a major destination for people from neighbouring countries seeking employment opportunities. The country also hosts refugees and asylum seekers fleeing conflict and instability in nations such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Source: Club of Mozambique
