By SUNTV Global Channel | June 15, 2026
The Government of Malawi has launched an emergency evacuation operation for hundreds of its citizens fleeing a wave of anti-migrant violence in South Africa, amid growing fears over the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.
Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed that a convoy of eight buses carrying 645 Malawian nationals has departed South Africa and is en route to Malawi under tight security.
According to government officials, the evacuees were among thousands of African migrants displaced by violent attacks, looting, and intimidation allegedly carried out by groups targeting foreign nationals in several South African communities.
Many of those rescued had reportedly been taking shelter at a temporary refugee camp established at the Sherwood Town Hall in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, after being forced to flee their homes and businesses.
The convoy is expected to arrive in Malawi through the Mwanza Border Post on June 17, where authorities will conduct medical examinations, biometric registration, trauma assessments, and reintegration programmes for the returnees.
In an official statement, the Malawian government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens abroad and pledged continued consular support for those affected by the unrest.
The evacuation comes amid growing concern across Africa over renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals have increasingly reported attacks, harassment, and destruction of property.
The development follows a similar emergency response by the Nigerian government, which recently evacuated hundreds of Nigerians from South Africa following reports of targeted violence and insecurity affecting migrant communities.
Zimbabwean authorities have also reportedly activated emergency measures to assist their citizens seeking to leave affected areas.
Analysts warn that the worsening situation could have serious diplomatic and economic consequences for South Africa, as concerns mount over the treatment of African migrants and the country’s regional reputation.
Observers attribute the growing tensions to a combination of economic hardship, rising unemployment, and anti-immigrant sentiment, which have fueled hostility toward foreign workers and business owners.
As governments across the continent move to protect their citizens, calls are growing for South African authorities to take stronger action to prevent further violence and restore confidence among migrant communities.
