Nearly 10 000 Malawians remain at Durban hall 2 weeks after seeking refuge
Authorities are relocating, processing and repatriating thousands of Malawian nationals as overcrowding and humanitarian concerns persist at Sherwood Hall.
Today (June 21) marks two weeks since the grounds of Sherwood Hall in Durban became a temporary home to nearly 10 000 Malawian nationals from across KZN.
Berea Mail reports that, fearing uncertainty ahead of the planned nationwide anti-illegal immigration protests on June 30, men, women and children arrived at the hall seeking safety. Many women carried babies, while others arrived with bags and belongings packed for an uncertain future.
“It began with around 75 people looking for a safe space and now there are thousands of Malawians awaiting repatriation,” said Ward 30 councillor Warren Burne.
As authorities work to ease overcrowding through relocation, repatriation and deportation processes, bedding, luggage and basic supplies remain scattered across the site, reflecting what has become an extended stay rather than a temporary arrangement.
Community response
The situation has drawn mixed reactions from the surrounding community. While residents, businesses and organisations have stepped in to provide food and humanitarian support, others have expressed concerns about sanitation, safety and the strain on already stretched local resources.
Municipal officials have continued engaging with those at the site, focusing on humanitarian assistance, documentation and relocation options. A temporary staging area has been established at the former Durban Drive-In site near the Durban Magistrate’s Court, where deportation hearings are currently taking place.
Relocation and processing efforts
Daily processing, verification and deportation operations in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, SAPS and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development are underway at Sherwood Hall.
Authorities say the additional facility will serve as an overflow site aimed at reducing congestion, improving co-ordination and helping to stabilise the situation.
As developments continue to unfold, Berea Mail will monitor the crisis and report on efforts to find a sustainable solution.
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