Leader of the opposition in Parliament, Simpex Chithyola Banda, has expressed concern over the reported abuse and hardships Malawian nationals are facing in South Africa, calling on both the Malawian and South African governments to take urgent action.
Banda described the treatment of Malawians as deeply disappointing, arguing that it is particularly troubling given Malawi’s historical contribution to South Africa’s development through the labour and services of its citizens.
He urged the Malawi Government to immediately dispatch a delegation to South Africa to engage with authorities and facilitate the safe and orderly return of Malawian nationals affected by the situation.
The opposition leader also called on the South African Government to compensate Malawians who have reportedly lost their businesses, property, and livelihoods during the unrest.
In addition, Banda appealed to the Malawi Government to provide humanitarian assistance, including food and temporary accommodation, to returnees who have already arrived in the country as they begin rebuilding their lives.
Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs George Chaponda said that, as of the 6th of this month, approximately 30,000 Malawian nationals have returned home from South Africa.
Chaponda said the figures are based on records compiled by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA).
He added that Malawi’s diplomatic missions in South Africa and Mozambique are continuing engagements with the governments of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique to facilitate the safe and smooth repatriation of Malawian citizens.
The minister further disclosed that more than 700 Malawians who travelled independently from South Africa to Mozambique are currently awaiting transportation back to Malawi.
Authorities say efforts to coordinate the return of affected citizens and provide humanitarian support remain ongoing.
