Over 22,000 Malawians Return from South Africa

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By Suleman Chitera

Over 22,000 Malawians Return from South Africa as Xenophobic Violence Forces Mass Repatriation

More than 22,000 Malawians have returned home from South Africa this week after fleeing a wave of xenophobic violence, as the Malawi Government continues to coordinate a large-scale humanitarian response for those arriving at the country’s borders.

As of Friday afternoon, close to 22,000 returnees had been received at Joyce Chitsulo Stadium in Mwanza, which has been designated as the main reception centre for Malawians repatriated from South Africa. Authorities say more returnees are expected in the coming days as the evacuation exercise continues.Malawi Government Intensifies Repatriation of Citizens Amid Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

To strengthen relief efforts, the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) has donated humanitarian supplies worth K20 million, including blankets, buckets and solar lights, to support displaced families arriving at the reception centre.

Deputy Director of Preparedness in the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Nellie Kalengamaliro, expressed gratitude for the donation, saying the assistance will significantly improve the welfare of returnees who have arrived with urgent humanitarian needs.China’s Investment in Africa Cannot Buy the Silence of a Continent

“The support from the Malawi Red Cross Society comes at a critical time and will help us provide essential assistance to those returning home,” she said.

MRCS Secretary General Chifundo Kalulu said the organisation has deployed emergency teams to provide first aid, temporary shelter and family reunification services for vulnerable returnees.

He noted that many of those arriving were forced to flee South Africa with little or no personal belongings after being affected by xenophobic attacks.South Africa Weighs Plan to Bill Foreign Governments for Deportation Costs Amid Tighter Immigration Stance

Government officials say the repatriation programme remains ongoing as Malawi continues to receive citizens escaping the violence. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that all returnees receive immediate humanitarian assistance while longer-term reintegration plans are being developed.

The latest influx highlights the growing humanitarian impact of xenophobic violence in South Africa and the urgent need to support thousands of Malawians rebuilding their lives after returning home.