KwaZulu — Natal Faces Repatriation Delays Amidst Malawian Stranded Crisis BODY: DURBAN, South Africa – The KwaZulu-Natal province is addressing a humanitarian crisis as delays in the repatriation of undocumented Malawian nationals are placing immense pressure on provincial authorities. With winter temperatures taking a toll, around 10,000 Malawian nationals have sought refuge at Sherwood Hall in Durban, leading to growing concerns about their living conditions. Premier Thami Ntuli has expressed frustration with the Malawian embassy’s lack of support, particularly in arranging transportation for the repatriation process. “.
They are not doing justice to our province, “Ntuli said emphasizing the need for more buses to facilitate the voluntary departure of the Malawian nationals.
As of June 24, 2026, only 1,549 Malawian nationals had returned to Malawi, with another 1,260 en route and 700 having been deported.
The remaining individuals are still awaiting assistance, raising concerns about their well — being and the potential for further escalations.
The situation has also led to tensions in Pietermaritzburg, where a camp has sprung up following the recent murder of a Malawian national in the JikaJoe informal settlement.
The incident has sparked protests and raised concerns about public order ahead of the 30 June deadline for undocumented migrants. Premier Ntuli warns against actions that could undermine public order during expected protests, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The situation in KwaZulu — Natal highlights the broader challenges faced by countries like South Africa in managing illegal immigration and the complexities of international cooperation in migration and repatriation efforts.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
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