Malawians thank South Africans for their generosity as they leave Woodmead consulate
The final group of Malawian nationals camped outside the Malawi Consulate General in Woodmead has been relocated, with immigrants expressing gratitude to South Africans who fed them, and to police who kept them safe.
Hundreds of Malawian nationals, who remained outside the Malawi Consulate General in Woodmead after the first repatriation buses departed on June 29, were transported to the repatriation centre on June 30.
The operation was co-ordinated by the department of home affairs, in partnership with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), following days of uncertainty for those who had been unable to board the buses that left for the Beitbridge transit centre, on the South Africa/Zimbabwe boarder.
Read more: Departing Malawian says SA’s weak justice system fuels illegal migration
Police officers and law enforcement officials were at the consulate throughout the day, assisting the crowd, and ensuring that the remaining Malawian nationals boarded safely.
The move forms part of the ongoing process to facilitate the repatriation of Malawian nationals, where they will await further processing before returning to Malawi. Many of those boarding the buses expressed relief after spending several days sleeping on pavements outside the consulate while depending on donations from residents, churches, and humanitarian organisations.
Also read: Hundreds of Malawians begin journey home as repatriation buses arrive in Woodmead
One of the Malawian nationals, Chifundo Banda, said the kindness shown by South Africans during the difficult period would remain with him long after he returned home. “We are very thankful to everyone who came to help us. People brought us food, water, blankets, and other necessities every day. Even though we were far from home, they made sure our essential needs were met. We will never forget their generosity.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: After days of uncertainty, the final group of Malawian nationals, who had spent cold nights outside the Malawi Consulate General in Woodmead, board government-arranged transport on June 30. Video: Xoliswa Zakwe #Protest #June30 #immigrants #Sandton
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Another Malawian national, Memory Phiri, said although many had expected to leave the country before the unofficial June 30 deadline set by anti-immigration activists, she was grateful that authorities had prioritised their safety. “We are still in South Africa after the deadline, but we are grateful that nothing bad happened to us. We were leaving in fear.
“The police have been with us day and night, making sure we are safe and protected. For that, we are thankful.”
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