Malawians arrive at the Drive In Sit for documenting and repatriation - PHOTO CREDIT: IOL Doctor Ngcobo
As authorities continue the repatriation and processing of thousands of undocumented Malawian nationals in Durban, residents across several communities have called for greater public consultation when emergency accommodation sites are identified in residential areas.
The issue came into sharp focus in recent weeks after thousands of Malawian nationals gathered at Sherwood Hall and surrounding areas following fears for their safety amid anti-immigration protests in parts of KwaZulu-Natal. As numbers swelled and concerns over overcrowding, sanitation, and public health risks increased, eThekwini Municipality activated the old Drive-In Site at North Beach as a temporary staging area and considered additional options to ease pressure on existing facilities.
One of those proposed sites was Tills Crescent Grounds in Ward 31. However, following engagements between municipal leadership and community representatives, the proposal was withdrawn after residents, schools, religious organisations, businesses, and other stakeholders raised concerns about the suitability of the location.
For many residents, the issue was not only about the accommodation of displaced people, but also about how decisions affecting communities are communicated and implemented. Residents cited concerns about the proximity of the grounds to schools, places of worship, student accommodation, sporting facilities, and residential neighbourhoods. Others questioned whether sufficient consultation had taken place before the proposal was considered.
