Malawi Government to repatriate citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks

The Malawi government will soon commence a voluntary repatriation exercise for Malawian nationals in South Africa who wish to return home following vigilante demonstrations and attacks on African migrants in parts of the country.

In a statement released, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said it has been following reports of attacks on African migrants with and it has engaged South African authorities through diplomatic channels.

“Through the Malawian High Commission in Pretoria and Consulate General in Johannesburg, the Ministry has been in contact with leaders of Malawian diaspora groups in South Africa in order to assess the situation and provide the necessary support to those affected,” reads part of the statement.

The Ministry said it has undertaken several diplomatic initiatives with the Government of South Africa since the demonstrations began.

The Ministry also indicated that voluntary repatriation exercise will target only Malawian nationals who have voluntarily indicated willingness to return and require logistical support.

The Ministry has warned Malawians in South Africa to be cautious of impostors posing as government representatives and has clarified that it has not engaged any individual or institution to manage the repatriation exercise.