Malawians’ struggles in South Africa have intensified due to the recent crackdown on illegal immigration. Thousands of Malawians, drawn by the promise of better economic prospects, have migrated to South Afrca over the years. However, a renewed push by South African authorities to deport undocumented immigrants has left many in a precarious position.
For Malawians like Collins Kamoto, the harsh realities of life as a migrant, combined with aggressive enforcement measures, have deepened the sense of insecurity.
In May, 46-year-old Kamoto was arrested during one of South Africa’s numerous police operations targeting illegal immigrants. Despite his hopes of making enough money to support his family back in Malawi, Kamoto was charged with lacking proper documentation. After spending four months in jail, he was deported in September, adding to the growing number of Malawian deportees facing uncertain futures. His experience is not unique, and his story highlights the broader issue of *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* as they grapple with the crackdown on immigration.
Life as a Malawian Migrant in South Africa
Kamoto’s journey began in March 2023 when he left his home in Malawi’s Mulanje district for South Africa. Like many Malawians, he was fleeing a collapsing economy that offered few opportunities. Upon arriving in South Africa, Kamoto found himself working odd jobs in the agricultural sector, where he earned between 100 and 350 rand (£4.35-£15.21) a day. He lived in a metal shack with no running water and, though work was sporadic, the income allowed him to send money home to his family.
Despite these difficult conditions, Kamoto and many other Malawians believed the sacrifices were worth it. Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* include facing the constant threat of unemployment and poverty, yet the money they can send home provides a lifeline for their families.
However, the increased police raids and roadblocks targeting illegal immigrants have made it increasingly difficult for migrants to evade authorities.
Increased Deportations and Fear Among Malawian Migrants
In recent months, South African police have stepped up efforts to identify and deport undocumented immigrants. Roadblocks, random searches, and raids on residential areas where migrants live have become more frequent.
For Malawians, this means living in constant fear of arrest. Those caught without proper documentation, like Kamoto, are swiftly deported. This new reality has made *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* even more pronounced.
A Malawian man in his 30s, who has been deported multiple times, described how the police have intensified their operations. He said that the situation has worsened, with police raids and roadblocks happening more often. Previously, migrants could live and work with a degree of anonymity, but now, he explained, they are always on edge, fearing the next police siren. The *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* have become part of daily life as they attempt to survive in an increasingly hostile environment.
Why Malawians Flee Their Homeland
The root cause of *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* can be traced back to the dire economic situation in their home country. Malawi is grappling with high unemployment, inflation, and a collapsing currency. Essential goods like fuel, medicines, and food are in short supply, further exacerbating the situation. In 2022, 89% of Malawians believed their country was heading in the wrong direction, according to Afrobarometer.
With a GDP per capita of just $645 in 2022, Malawi offers few opportunities for its citizens. Many are forced to leave in search of work abroad, and South Africa remains a popular destination.
Remittances sent back by Malawians working in South Africa and other countries have more than tripled over the last decade, now accounting for 1.3% of Malawi’s GDP. Despite the risks of deportation and the harsh conditions, South Africa still represents hope for many Malawians, making their departure inevitable despite the hardships they endure.
South Africa’s Tougher Immigration Stance
South Africa has a long history of attracting migrant labor, particularly from neighboring countries. Many Malawians work in sectors such as agriculture and mining, providing much-needed labor. However, *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* have worsened as the government enforces stricter immigration laws.
Between 2018 and 2022, South Africa deported around 20,000 people per year. This followed a peak in deportations in 2017, when more than 135,000 people were deported. Government data reveals that in the early 2000s, annual deportation numbers often exceeded 100,000, reaching a record high of over 312,000 in 2007.
The rise in deportations in recent years is part of a broader effort by the South African government to manage immigration more strictly.
Leon Schreiber, South Africa’s home affairs minister, stated in July 2024 that the country would continue to welcome skilled immigrants who contribute to the economy through legal means, but at the same time, would enforce stricter penalties for those breaking the law. This shift in policy has made *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* even more acute, as they find themselves caught in the crosshairs of immigration enforcement.
What Lies Ahead for Malawian Deportees?
For *Malawian deportees* like Kamoto, the future is uncertain. Back in Malawi, the economic situation remains dire, with few job opportunities.
Despite his recent deportation, Kamoto is already considering returning to South Africa, as he sees little hope of finding work at home. The difficult choice between staying in Malawi and enduring poverty or risking another journey to South Africa is one faced by many.
For many Malawians, the *struggles in South Africa* are part of a broader pattern of migration across Africa. As South Africa continues its crackdown on illegal immigration, more Malawians will likely face deportation.
Yet, for many, the risks of staying in Malawi far outweigh the dangers of living as undocumented immigrants in South Africa. Without better economic prospects at home, the cycle of migration and deportation is likely to continue.
In conclusion, *Malawians’ struggles in South Africa* are a reflection of the broader economic and social challenges they face. As South Africa tightens its immigration policies, Malawians will continue to seek opportunities abroad, driven by the need to survive and support their families.
