Over 1,000 Malawian Migrants Flee Durban Settlement Amid Xenophobic Threats

DURBAN, South Africa — More than 1,000 migrants, the majority of them Malawian nationals, have fled their homes in Burnwood informal settlement in Durban following threats and intimidation by local residents demanding that foreign nationals leave the area.

The displaced migrants have spent several days sheltering in an open field in nearby Sherwood after fleeing what witnesses described as a coordinated campaign of harassment and violence on Sunday evening. According to affected residents, groups of local men moved through the settlement questioning people about their nationality and ordering foreign nationals to leave South Africa. Some migrants reported being assaulted, while many escaped with only the belongings they could carry.

Ernest Machwela, one of the displaced migrants, said he fled with his wife and seven-month-old child after spotting a group approaching his shack.

"I took whatever I could carry and ran away with my wife and our child," said Machwela. "The group was shouting, 'Abahambe, abahambe,' meaning we must go back home. Some were carrying sjamboks, golf sticks and bush knives."

Machwela said many migrants feared reporting incidents to authorities because they were focused on escaping the violence.

"We hope the South African government and police will help us so we can be safe," he said.

Among those displaced is Jennifer Moses, a seven-months pregnant migrant who has lived in South Africa for four years. Moses said she fears for her safety and future after being forced to abandon her home.

Sydenham South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Simo Joli confirmed that a group of local men entered Burnwood settlement on Sunday night and demanded that foreign nationals leave.

"Approximately 75 Malawian nationals initially sought refuge at the Sherwood grounds next to Sherwood Hall," said Joli. "Members of the local Muslim community provided meals and blankets. By Tuesday, the number had increased to more than 1,000."

Police said security patrols have since been increased around the temporary camp to prevent further incidents.

Officials from the Malawian Embassy have begun coordinating assistance for displaced citizens. Adam Ali, a member of the embassy's disaster response team, said many migrants had expressed a desire to return home because they no longer felt secure in South Africa.

"We are grateful for the humanitarian assistance, especially as many women are heavily pregnant," said Ali.

"Security has improved with the presence of police and private security. We expect the first group to be repatriated early next week."

According to embassy officials, approximately 1,200 Malawian nationals are currently gathered at the Sherwood site awaiting further assistance and possible repatriation.

Relief organisations and community volunteers have mobilised to support displaced families, many of whom arrived at the camp without food, bedding or basic necessities. Fiaz Magid, director of Gift of the Needy, said the organisation had supplied emergency aid, including drinking water, instant porridge, biscuits, cereals, fruit and baby supplies. The organisation has also distributed nappies, infant formula, wet wipes, toilet paper and sanitary products to vulnerable families.

The latest incident has renewed concerns about recurring xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where migrants from neighbouring countries have periodically been targeted during outbreaks of anti-foreigner sentiment. Human rights organisations have urged authorities to protect vulnerable communities and ensure those responsible for threats and violence are held accountable.

Malawian migrants flee Durban