BLANTYRE, Malawi — The Malawi Government has pledged to repatriate all Malawians facing violence, discrimination and hardship in South Africa, assuring returning citizens that they will receive support to rebuild their lives back home.
“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,” Chaponda said.
The latest arrivals are part of an ongoing government-led repatriation exercise aimed at assisting Malawians who have been affected by attacks, intimidation and difficult living conditions in South Africa.
Chaponda said the government remains deeply concerned about reports of abuse and insecurity affecting some Malawians living in various South African communities. He stressed that protecting citizens, regardless of where they are, remains a top priority for the administration.
The repatriation programme comes as Malawi continues to monitor developments in South Africa, where periodic outbreaks of anti-foreigner sentiment have left many migrants living in fear.
Several returnees described difficult experiences, saying they had endured uncertainty, economic hardship and concerns for their personal safety before deciding to return home.
Government officials said special attention is being given to vulnerable groups, including women and children, who are often the most affected during periods of unrest and displacement.
The government believes the reintegration package will reduce the likelihood of returnees being forced to migrate again due to economic challenges.
Migration experts have noted that many Malawians travel to South Africa in search of employment and better economic opportunities, often supporting families back home through remittances. However, recurring incidents of violence against foreign nationals have exposed migrants to significant risks.
Chaponda called on Malawians still in South Africa to remain in contact with Malawi’s diplomatic officials and seek assistance whenever necessary.
As more citizens continue to arrive in the country, the government has reiterated its commitment to expanding the repatriation exercise until every Malawian seeking assistance is safely brought home.
For many of the returnees, Sunday marked not only the end of a difficult chapter but also the beginning of a new journey as they seek to rebuild their lives with the support of their government and communities.Shepherd Bushiri Mobilizes 10 Buses to Repatriate Malawians
The latest arrivals were welcomed by government officials, relatives and well-wishers, with emotional scenes unfolding as families reunited after months of uncertainty.
With authorities promising continued assistance, the repatriation programme is expected to continue in the coming weeks as Malawi intensifies efforts to protect its citizens abroad and provide hope for those returning home.
