Departing Malawian says SA’s weak justice system fuels illegal migration
As he prepared to leave South Africa after more than a decade, Beck Chitsulo said he believes weak enforcement of immigration laws has contributed to the country's undocumented migration challenges.
As Malawian nationals boarded buses outside the Malawi Consulate General in Woodmead on June 29, Beck Chitsulo left South Africa with a message he hopes both South Africans and fellow Africans will reflect on.
After living and working in South Africa since 2014, Chitsulo said he believes one of the country’s biggest challenges is not migration itself, but what he views as weak enforcement of its laws.
“To be honest, I think the justice system is weak. Many people come here because they believe they can break the rules and nothing will happen to them.”
Read more: Hundreds of Malawians begin journey home as repatriation buses arrive in Woodmead
Chitsulo, who was among hundreds of Malawians returning home after gathering outside the consulate for several days, said undocumented migration has become a complex issue that affects both South Africans and foreign nationals.
“I’ve been stopped by police before, but instead of following the legal process, things were dealt with there and then with money. That is why many people think they can come here without the proper documents.”
He believes stronger law enforcement would discourage undocumented migration and create a fairer system for everyone.
“When you have managed the situation, please try to fix the justice system. If the laws are properly enforced, people will respect them.”
Despite his criticism, Chitsulo expressed gratitude for the years he spent in South Africa.
“We thank South Africa. Many of us lived and worked here peacefully, and we learnt a lot.”
He said many Malawians leave home not because they want to break the law, but because they are searching for better economic opportunities.
Also read: Hope for Malawians outside consulate as humanitarian initiative secures buses home
“People hear stories about South Africa and come looking for greener pastures, but I think it’s time for us to go back and build our own country.”
Holding a Degree in Business Administration, Chitsulo said he plans to start a small business when he returns to Malawi.
“I’ve learned a lot in South Africa. I’ve seen how people do business and how communities work. I want to take that knowledge home and create opportunities there.”
He also hopes his experience will encourage others to think differently about migration.
@caxtonjoburgnorth As Beck Chitsulo prepares to return to Malawi after more than a decade in South Africa, he shares his personal view that stronger enforcement of immigration laws and improvements to the justice system could help address illegal migration. Video: Xoliswa Zakwe and Ayanda Ntshingila #satiktok_sa #cityofjoburg #fyp #government #2026 #foryourpage #Fourways #Marchandmarch #illegalimigration #SA ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
“I’ll tell my family and others that South Africa shouldn’t only be seen as a place to find a better life. We must also work to create opportunities in our own countries.”
As another bus prepared to leave Woodmead, Chitsulo looked ahead with optimism.
“Home is still home. Now it’s our turn to build our future there.”
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