Yasmin Bilal
The Malawi government has launched a voluntary repatriation programme for citizens in South Africa following reports of vigilante attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country.
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the Malawi High Commission in Pretoria estimate that about 10,000 Malawians were in distress as of 13 June.
A coordinated response has been activated involving government agencies, humanitarian partners and other stakeholders. The aim is a safe, orderly and dignified return of affected citizens.
A government task team has been deployed to South Africa. It is overseeing registration, verification, protection and repatriation of Malawian nationals. Emergency travel documents have also been issued to citizens without valid papers.
The first group of returnees arrived in Malawi on 9 June. Others remain in transit. Transport operators are assisting with movement from shelters and affected communities.
In KwaZulu-Natal, it is reported that about 7,000 Malawian nationals are believed to be sheltering at Sherwood Hall while awaiting transport home.
Over the weekend, a limited number of buses were deployed, but officials say the capacity was not sufficient to evacuate everyone in KwaZulu-Natal and other parts of the country. This has left thousands in overcrowded conditions, with sanitation concerns and extended waiting periods.
Reception and processing facilities have been set up at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre. Returnees are receiving temporary shelter, food assistance, psychosocial support and onward transport to their home districts.
Malawi-based Preacher Shepherd Bushiri has pledged 10 buses in support of the repatriation effort. He said the challenges faced by Malawians in South Africa mirror his own experiences in the country. He confirmed the buses will assist in transporting citizens home.
Government has appealed for assistance from the private sector, development partners, humanitarian organisations, faith-based institutions and transport operators. Stranded citizens have also called for support from business leaders and philanthropists.
Authorities have opened dedicated accounts for donations.
Malawi Kwacha Account
Account Number 0013000200025
Bank Reserve Bank of Malawi
Branch Capital City Branch
Foreign Currency Account
Account Number 0013000200022
Bank Reserve Bank of Malawi
SWIFT Code RBMAMWMW
Correspondent Bank Citibank N.A.
SWIFT Code CITIUS33
Correspondent Account Number 36005022
Government has assured transparency in the use of all funds. Contributions will be directed strictly towards repatriation, reception and support services.
Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs Wilson Moleni said the operation is one of the largest repatriation efforts in recent years and requires collective effort and solidarity.
He confirmed that about 10,000 Malawians were in distress as of mid-June and said the government remains committed to assisting those who wish to return safely.