Thousands of migrants are seeking refuge or returning home as a controversial deadline for undocumented foreigners approaches in South Africa.
Growing anti-migrant protests in South Africa have forced thousands of foreign nationals to flee their homes, seek shelter, or arrange voluntary repatriation ahead of a 30 June deadline set by protest groups demanding undocumented migrants leave the country.
In Durban, thousands of migrants, mainly from Malawi, have gathered in temporary camps after reporting threats, intimidation, and violence. Many say groups of men have gone door to door ordering foreigners to leave, with some attacks resulting in injuries.
Several countries, including Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, have begun organising transport for citizens who wish to return home. South African authorities say thousands of migrants have already volunteered for repatriation.
The protests come amid rising unemployment, economic hardship, and growing public frustration over access to jobs and public services. Protest leaders argue they are targeting illegal immigration, while rights groups warn the campaign risks fuelling xenophobia and violence.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the targeting of migrants and warned that no individual or group has the authority to demand proof of nationality from people in public spaces. The government has also announced new measures to strengthen immigration enforcement and tackle corruption within the system.
With the deadline approaching, fears are growing that tensions could escalate further, leaving thousands of migrants uncertain about their future in South Africa.
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