Blantyre, Malawi — The Malawi Government has reaffirmed its commitment to rescuing and supporting Malawians affected by ongoing xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with authorities pledging to continue repatriating citizens who wish to return home.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Chaponda, made the assurance on Sunday in Blantyre while welcoming another group of women and children who arrived from South Africa as part of the government’s repatriation programme.
“Our government will not allow Malawians to continue suffering in South Africa. We will rescue them all and once they arrive in the country, we will support them financially to settle down so that they should not return there,” said Chaponda.
The minister said government has already deployed buses to transport affected Malawians back home and will continue sending more vehicles until all those wishing to return have been safely repatriated.
According to Chaponda, the Malawi Government has been in constant communication with South African authorities regarding the situation. He said the South African Government has informed Malawi that the violence and attacks are politically motivated and that efforts are underway to restore order and protect foreign nationals.Malawi Needs K24 Billion to Repatriate 15,000 Citizens Stranded in South Africa
“The South African Government has assured us that they are trying to control the situation and ensure the safety of all people living in the country,” he said.
Chaponda further disclosed that South African authorities have assured Malawi that foreign nationals, including Malawians who possess valid travel and residency documents, are not the primary targets of the current unrest.
The latest group welcomed in Blantyre consisted mainly of women and children, with government officials providing immediate assistance upon their arrival. Authorities say additional support will be extended to returnees to help them reintegrate into their communities and rebuild their lives.
The repatriation exercise comes amid growing concerns over the welfare of Malawians living and working in South Africa, a country that hosts thousands of migrants from across the African continent in search of employment and business opportunities.Malawi Is Collecting More Revenue Than Ever — So Why Are Citizens Still Suffering?
Government has urged Malawians still in South Africa to remain calm, follow guidance from local authorities, and maintain contact with Malawian diplomatic missions for assistance where necessary.
As the repatriation programme continues, Malawi authorities say they remain committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all citizens affected by the ongoing tensions in South Africa.
