Malawi to repatriate citizens from South Africa amid anti-immigrant attacks

Malawi will join other countries ​in repatriating its nationals ​seeking to leave ‌South Africa, where ​attacks on African migrants have been reported in parts of the country.

Malawi will join other countries ​in repatriating its nationals ​seeking to leave ‌South Africa, where ​attacks on African migrants have been reported in parts of the country. The Ministry of ‌Foreign Affairs said in a statement late on Tuesday that the programme would be limited to citizens who have requested assistance, with details ‌to be announced once logistical arrangements are finalised.

Xenophobic attacks are a ‌recurring problem in South Africa, where immigrants are often blamed for economic challenges such as high unemployment. Anti-immigrant groups have set a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreigners ⁠to ​leave, fuelling ⁠fear among migrant communities.

Mozambique said five of its citizens were killed in violence in the ⁠coastal town of Mossel Bay over the weekend, while Ghana repatriated hundreds ​of nationals last week. South Africa's government has pledged to ⁠crack down on those perpetrating or inciting violence against migrants. President Cyril Ramaphosa told ⁠parliament ​on Tuesday that while tackling illegal immigration was important, the country should not resort to "violence, xenophobia and vigilantism."

South Africa has the ⁠biggest economy on the continent and is a destination for people from ⁠neighbouring countries ⁠seeking work. It also hosts refugees and asylum seekers fleeing conflict in countries like Democratic Republic of ‌Congo.