Malawi has announced a voluntary repatriation programme for its nationals in South Africa following reports of unrest and attacks on African migrants in parts of the country. Image: Supplied
Malawi has announced a voluntary repatriation programme for its nationals in South Africa. The Malawi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed the programme on Tuesday 2 June 2026. This Malawi South Africa repatriation announcement makes Malawi the latest African country to offer assistance to its citizens following unrest in parts of South Africa.
Malawi South Africa Repatriation: What the Government Said
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released an official statement confirming the programme. It said the government would commence a voluntary repatriation exercise for Malawian nationals who have requested assistance to return home. Furthermore, the ministry confirmed that the programme is limited to citizens who have voluntarily indicated their willingness to return. Logistical details will be announced once arrangements are finalised.
The ministry confirmed it has been monitoring the situation closely. “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,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the ministry confirmed it has engaged the South African government through diplomatic channels since the demonstrations began. It also warned Malawians in South Africa to be cautious of impostors posing as government representatives. The ministry clarified that it has not engaged any individual or institution to manage the repatriation exercise on its behalf.
The Broader Regional Response
Malawi joins a growing list of African countries offering repatriation assistance to their nationals in South Africa. Ghana screened hundreds of citizens for repatriation following unrest. Mozambique confirmed that five of its citizens died during violence in Mossel Bay over the weekend. However, Western Cape police confirmed only two deaths and did not confirm the cause. Nigeria also announced a voluntary repatriation programme for its nationals earlier this month.
Furthermore, anti-immigrant groups in South Africa have set a 30 June 2026 deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave. As a result, fear has spread among migrant communities across the country. The South African government has pledged to act against those perpetrating or inciting violence against migrants.
South Africa’s Position
The South African government has engaged with multiple African governments through diplomatic channels in response to the growing regional concern. President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting all people on South African soil regardless of nationality. Furthermore, the South African Police Service confirmed it was pursuing those responsible for any violence against foreign nationals.
However, the South African government has consistently rejected the characterisation of recent events as a xenophobic crisis. It has maintained that protests calling for immigration law enforcement are separate from violence against individuals. As a result, the gap between South Africa’s official position and those of several neighbouring governments remains significant.
What Happens Next
The Malawi government is expected to announce logistical details of the repatriation exercise shortly. The programme is voluntary. Therefore, no Malawian national will be compelled to return home. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Malawians in South Africa to contact the High Commission in Pretoria or the Consulate General in Johannesburg for assistance.
Mzansi Today Live will continue to follow this developing story as further information becomes available.
For more information visit the Malawi Ministry of Foreign Affairs at ifpri.org
Read our earlier coverage: Ghana Charters Evacuation Flight for 300 Citizens From South Africa. One Person Shows Up.
Editors Note All information in this article is based on the official statement released by Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on 2 June 2026. Mzansi Today Live will update this article as further information becomes available.