Thousands of Malawians Returned Home as South Africa Tightens Immigration Enforcement

A total of more than 3000 Malawian citizens have been sent back from South Africa as authorities continue a large scale removal process linked to rising tensions over undocumented migration and recent protests in major cities including Johannesburg.

Malawi’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Stella Ndau, confirmed that 1,549 citizens have already arrived back home, 1,260 are still in transit, while around 700 were officially deported, bringing the overall figure to 3,509 repatriated individuals. She said the process is being carried out in coordination with South African authorities.

The deportations come as South Africa expands its temporary holding infrastructure, including the construction of an additional deportation centre to ease pressure on already congested facilities. Conditions at the main site in Durban’s Sherwood area remain strained, with thousands of migrants, including women and children, reportedly awaiting processing.

Some Malawians at the centre have described difficult living conditions while waiting to be sent home, although officials maintain that many of those affected are residing in the country without legal documentation and must undergo court procedures before removal.

Authorities have also pointed to logistical setbacks, including a shortage of transport buses, which has slowed down the repatriation exercise. Malawi has appealed for further assistance to help facilitate the return of its citizens.

The situation reflects increasing regional strain tied to anti-immigration sentiment in South Africa, as several African nations work with local authorities to repatriate nationals amid growing fears of violence and stricter enforcement policies.