Anti-Migrant Deadline Separates Families in South Africa

Thousands of undocumented migrants are leaving South Africa ahead of an unofficial June 30 deadline announced by anti-immigration groups, forcing many families to separate amid growing fears of violence.

Among those departing is 30-year-old Malawian John Allen, who left behind his South African partner and their one-year-old son before joining other migrants at a temporary camp in Durban while awaiting transport home.

Allen said concerns about his safety influenced his decision to leave, despite the hardship of being separated from his family. He said attacks on foreign nationals in his neighbourhood had prompted many migrants to flee.

The South African government has distanced itself from the deadline and condemned attacks targeting foreign nationals. However, hundreds of migrants remain at temporary camps in Durban as arrangements are made for their return to their home countries.

Humanitarian organisations have been providing food, clothing and other essential supplies to migrants staying in the camps while officials process departures.

The Department of Home Affairs has established a temporary processing centre and is coordinating the transfer of migrants from Durban to the Musina border post ahead of planned demonstrations.

Some migrants say they fear that even foreigners with valid immigration documents could be targeted because vigilante groups may not distinguish between documented and undocumented residents.

Another migrant, Amadou Awali, said he was leaving behind two young sons because their mother could not afford to care for them alone. He said he hopes to return to South Africa once tensions ease.

Several African governments have organised voluntary repatriation programmes for their citizens following a rise in anti-immigration protests across South Africa. Authorities have continued to urge calm while monitoring the security situation.

SOURCE: Reuters