DRC and Malawi Move to Repatriate Citizens from South Africa Ahead of June 30 Shutdown

By VL Bandi - Echos News Editorial Team
Published: June 18, 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Malawi have announced urgent plans to repatriate their citizens from South Africa before the end of June. The move comes amid growing fears surrounding the planned “June 30 shutdown,” a campaign by anti‑immigrant groups calling for undocumented foreigners to leave the country.

Evacuation Plans Underway

The Congolese embassy in Pretoria confirmed that chartered flights will be arranged to transport nationals back to Kinshasa. Officials said registration has already begun, with priority given to families and vulnerable individuals. No timeline was given for the flights, but authorities urged citizens to act quickly.

Malawi, facing financial constraints, has launched a public appeal for donations to fund buses and logistical costs. The government said many Malawians remain stranded in South Africa without means to return. “We don’t have enough resources to fund the repatriation, so we are asking for support,” one official stated.

Both governments have warned that the situation could deteriorate rapidly if tensions rise. Embassy staff in Johannesburg and Pretoria have been working extended hours to process travel documents and coordinate with local authorities.

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Concerns Over Safety

The planned shutdown has raised alarm among foreign communities. Past anti‑immigrant protests in South Africa have often turned violent, leaving migrants fearful of renewed attacks. Community leaders in Johannesburg and Pretoria reported that many foreign nationals are already avoiding public spaces.

Authorities in both the DRC and Malawi stressed that the repatriation is voluntary but strongly advised. Citizens were told to register with their embassies immediately to secure a place on flights or buses. “We cannot guarantee safety after June 30,” one embassy official said bluntly.

South African police have not confirmed how they plan to respond to the shutdown. Civil society groups have warned that the rhetoric around the campaign could fuel xenophobic tensions similar to those seen in previous years.

Government Appeals

The Congolese embassy said, “We are arranging special flights for our citizens who wish to go back home.” Malawi’s government meanwhile appealed to businesses and the wider community for donations. Officials explained that without external support, many Malawians could be left behind.

Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was working with transport companies to secure buses from Johannesburg to Blantyre. The ministry also asked churches and civic groups to assist with food and shelter for those waiting to depart.

In Kinshasa, the DRC government said it would provide temporary accommodation for returnees before helping them reintegrate. Officials described the operation as “humanitarian and precautionary,” noting that the embassy had received hundreds of calls from concerned citizens.

Regional Context

South Africa has long been a destination for migrants from across the continent, including large numbers from Malawi and the DRC. Economic opportunities and established communities have drawn thousands, but xenophobic violence has repeatedly disrupted lives.

In 2019, similar unrest led to mass evacuations of foreign nationals. Embassies at the time coordinated emergency flights, while South African authorities struggled to contain the violence. The current warnings echo those earlier crises, with foreign governments acting before unrest begins.

Analysts say the latest developments highlight the fragile balance between South Africa’s economic pull and its recurring social tensions. Migrants contribute significantly to sectors such as construction, retail, and domestic work, yet remain vulnerable to sudden hostility.

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Looking Ahead

Both governments have not provided specific timelines for the evacuations. Officials said logistics are complex, but urged citizens not to wait until the last minute. Registration lists are being compiled daily, and embassies are working with airlines and bus companies to secure transport.

For now, uncertainty remains. Migrants in South Africa are weighing whether to leave jobs and homes behind, while governments scramble to find funds and capacity. The looming June 30 deadline has added urgency to decisions that could affect thousands of families.

Echos News Closing Analysis

The repatriation efforts highlight the fragile position of foreign nationals in South Africa. With limited resources and rising tensions, both the DRC and Malawi are racing against time to protect their citizens. Whether the shutdown materialises or not, the fear alone has already forced governments into action.

For updates and related coverage, visit Echos News ZA. Original source reporting via MSN News.

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