LILONGWE, Malawi — The Malawi Government says it has successfully repatriated 6,936 Malawians who were stranded in South Africa following a wave of xenophobic attacks, as authorities continue efforts to bring home thousands more citizens.
The government revealed that 850 of those repatriated are children under the age of five, while 408 are children below the age of 15, highlighting the vulnerability of many of those fleeing the violence.
DoDMA Director of Preparedness and Response Charles Matabwa said the government remains fully committed to ensuring that every Malawian whose life is at risk in South Africa is safely returned home.
“The government is committed to rescuing all Malawians who are in danger in South Africa,” Matabwa said.
Authorities also announced that another group of about 5,000 Malawians is expected to arrive this weekend, significantly increasing the number of returnees as the repatriation exercise gathers momentum.
Upon arrival in Malawi, returnees are being received and assisted through a government-led humanitarian response coordinated by DoDMA in collaboration with various stakeholders. The assistance includes transport, temporary accommodation where necessary, food, medical support and other essential services aimed at helping families begin rebuilding their lives.
Government officials have urged Malawians still in unsafe areas of South Africa to cooperate with authorities coordinating the evacuation programme.
As the exercise continues, authorities say they remain focused on ensuring the safe, orderly and dignified return of all Malawians seeking assistance from South Africa.
