President Professor Peter Mutharika has returned to Malawi after a two-week private visit to South Africa, where he engaged in high-level discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on the plight of Malawians affected by recent violence targeting foreign nationals.
Speaking upon his arrival, Mutharika said his meetings with Ramaphosa focused on finding practical and lasting solutions to the challenges facing Malawians living and working in South Africa. He described the discussions as productive and expressed optimism that the two countries would continue collaborating beyond the June 30 deadline that had been set for addressing issues surrounding undocumented migrants and voluntary repatriation.CSOs praise Mutharika’s economic direction, say stability returning under DPP
According to Mutharika, both leaders acknowledged the importance of safeguarding the rights, dignity, and welfare of Malawians residing in South Africa while also strengthening cooperation between the two governments on migration-related matters.
“I had a series of meetings with my brother, President Ramaphosa, on the problems in the country. After the June 30 deadline, we will continue to work together on how to resolve the issue,” Mutharika said.
The President’s visit came against the backdrop of growing concerns over attacks and intimidation directed at foreign nationals in parts of South Africa. The violence prompted the Government of Malawi to facilitate the voluntary return of hundreds of Malawians who feared for their safety following threats, business disruptions, and increasing uncertainty.Kamphangala urges Mutharika to meet activists and journalists for their concerns
Upon his return, Mutharika extended a warm welcome to the Malawians who have since arrived back home through the government’s repatriation programme. He assured the returnees that his administration would stand by them during what he described as a difficult period of rebuilding their lives.
The President acknowledged that many of those returning had suffered significant economic losses after being forced to abandon businesses they had spent years establishing in South Africa. Others, he noted, left behind valuable property, employment opportunities, and in some cases family members, making their return an emotionally and financially challenging experience.
He emphasized that government institutions would continue working to identify appropriate support mechanisms aimed at helping the returnees reintegrate into their communities and regain economic stability.
Mutharika said the resilience demonstrated by the returning citizens should inspire national unity, adding that Malawi has a responsibility to ensure those affected are not left behind after sacrificing so much in search of better economic opportunities abroad.Atupele Muluzi clarifies his remarks as not an insult to Mutharika
The President further stressed that discussions with the South African government would remain ongoing as both countries seek sustainable solutions to migration challenges and the protection of migrant communities. He said maintaining strong diplomatic relations between Malawi and South Africa remains essential in addressing issues affecting citizens living across borders.
Despite returning from his overseas trip, Mutharika indicated that he would not be taking time off from official duties. Arriving in high spirits, he said he was proceeding directly to his office, underscoring his determination to continue implementing reforms and advancing the country’s development agenda.
“I have no time to rest because I have a country to reform,” he declared.
The statement reflects the administration’s intention to remain focused on governance and economic transformation while responding to pressing humanitarian concerns affecting Malawians both at home and abroad.Minister urges for a Digitally United Africa at E-Learning Summit
The return of the President comes at a time when Malawi continues to monitor the welfare of its citizens who have been repatriated from South Africa. Authorities are expected to continue assessing the needs of returnees, including access to social support, livelihood opportunities, and reintegration programmes designed to help them rebuild sustainable futures.
As diplomatic engagement between Lilongwe and Pretoria continues, the government hopes the cooperation established through the discussions between Mutharika and Ramaphosa will contribute to improved protection for Malawians living in South Africa while ensuring those who have returned home receive the support necessary to restart their lives with dignity.
