More than 28,000 Malawians return from South Africa after anti-migrant unrest

More than 28,000 Malawians have crossed back into Malawi from South Africa through the Mwanza border post, as repatriations pick up after anti-migrant violence and tougher immigration enforcement. Footage shows returnees arriving at Joyce Chitsulo Stadium camp on Monday with bags, mattresses and other belongings. Some receive meals and medical care, while others prepare sleeping areas inside tents as officials coordinate the response. "So far, the number we have is around 28,484. These are the total repatriated people from South Africa, and this makes around 420 buses that transported people," said Mwanza District Commissioner January Mvula. Mvula said around 7,412 returnees had health complications, while two women died as they approached the border. "We have a very big need for medications here," Nelly Kalengamaliro, Deputy Director for Preparedness in the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA), warned, adding that the government alone cannot meet the growing demand. For some returnees, the journey home has meant leaving family behind. "I left my husband at a camp in Musina, where he is still awaiting his repatriation here," said Fatima Ajusa. More buses are expected in the coming days under a government-led evacuation programme supported by humanitarian partners. Malawi is among several African countries, including Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria and Mozambique, repatriating citizens from South Africa after weeks of anti-migrant unrest. Foreign nationals have often been blamed for crime, unemployment and pressure on public services.