Repatriation programme ends next week

Malawi’s emergency repatriation programme for citizens affected by violence in South Africa is nearing its end, as the government prepares to conclude the exercise next week.

The Government has announced that its emergency voluntary repatriation programme for Malawians affected by violence in South Africa will come to an end on 12 August 2026, after facilitating the return of 56,723 citizens.

According to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), those repatriated include 38,866 men, 17,857 women, 3,988 children under the age of five, and 694 pregnant women.

The department said the last buses under the Government-funded programme will depart from the Malawi Consulate in Johannesburg and the Malawi High Commission in Pretoria at 12:00 p.m. (CAT) on Wednesday, 12 August, after which the reception centre in Mwanza will be closed.

Following the closure of the programme, Malawians wishing to return home will be expected to make their own travel arrangements.

However, Malawi’s diplomatic missions in South Africa will continue offering consular support, including issuing emergency travel documents free of charge for a transitional period.

DoDMA also revealed that seven people died during the repatriation exercise and conveyed the Government’s condolences to the affected families.

The Government further expressed appreciation to the governments of South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, as well as development partners, the private sector, civil society organisations and individuals, for their logistical, financial and humanitarian support throughout the operation.

Authorities said they will continue monitoring the situation in South Africa and respond to any future influx of returnees on a case-by-case basis.