Johannesburg – The government has moved to dispel reports that hundreds of Malawians who were being repatriated to their home country from Cape Town have been dumped in Johannesburg.
In a statement explaining the situation, William Baloyi, Deputy Government Spokesperson, on Monday,22 June 2026, said: “Government is aware of a group of approximately 500 Malawian nationals currently being accommodated in Newlands, Sophiatown, following their relocation from Cape Town”.
“The movement of these individuals forms part of a coordinated process facilitated by the Malawian Embassy, with the intention of supporting their voluntary return to Malawi.
“Government wishes to emphasise that the buses and individuals involved in this matter originated from Cape Town and were transported to Gauteng as part of these arrangements.”
Upon arrival, temporary accommodation was secured at a church facility in Newlands, Sophiatown, where the individuals are being provided with care and support while the necessary administrative processes are being finalised.
“We expect the buses to leave very soon,” the spokesperson said.
Baloyi said law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, have been deployed to the area to maintain law and order.
“Government departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, are working closely with the Malawian Consulate-General to ensure proper documentation, compliance with immigration laws, and the facilitation of voluntary repatriation,” he said.
“Government calls on all communities to remain calm and to allow the relevant authorities to manage the situation in a lawful, orderly and humane manner.
“Any actions that may inflame tensions or undermine due process will not assist in resolving the matter.”
Baloyi said the government further appeals to all individuals and organisations who have the means and willingness to support the return of foreign nationals to their countries of origin to do so in an orderly and lawful manner by working through the relevant government departments.
“This includes obtaining the necessary permits and approvals to ensure that such processes are conducted safely, transparently and in compliance with South African law,” Baloyi said.
“Government remains committed to ensuring that all interventions are guided by the rule of law, respect for human dignity, and regional cooperation, while safeguarding the safety and stability of communities.”
Baloyi said the government encourages the public to contact the official toll-free call centre for the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) at 0800 60 11 90 to report migration-related concerns.
The Malawians are among the foreign nationals who have opted to leave South Africa before the 30 June deadline set by anti-immigrant groups that include March on March and amaBhinca.
The groups declared 30 June 2026, as a “national shutdown” day, demanding that undocumented foreigners leave the country.
These groups blame immigrants for crime, unemployment, and strain on public services, and have called for stricter border controls and mass deportations.
However, President Ramaphosa has publicly dismissed the deadline.
He made it clear that only authorised government agencies — specifically the Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, and the South African Police Service — are allowed to ask for an ID or passport.
Ordinary citizens, vigilante groups, or private individuals have no legal right to demand proof of nationality.
