The Malawian government has announced plans to begin a voluntary repatriation exercise for its citizens living in South Africa following reports of vigilante demonstrations and attacks targeting African migrants in parts of the country.
In a statement issued on June 2, Malawi's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said it had been closely monitoring the situation through its diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg and was engaging South African authorities over the safety of Malawian nationals.
The ministry said the government was making arrangements to provide consular assistance and logistical support to Malawians who wished to return home.
"The repatriation exercise is intended only for Malawian nationals who have voluntarily indicated their willingness to return home and require logistical support from the Government."
"Accordingly, the public will be formally informed of the final logistics of the repatriation exercise once all preparations have been completed and in accordance with requisite arrangements that ensure the safety and wellbeing of the nationals." the statement noted.
