More than 8,000 Malawians remain stranded in Durban, South Africa, as government intensifies repatriation efforts and adjusts processing arrangements to speed up returns and ease congestion at border reception points.

The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has announced that the Kamuzu Stadium reception site for returnees from South Africa will be closed, with all processing operations now shifted to Mwanza Stadium.

Director of Preparedness and Response at DoDMA, Charles Matabwa, told local media that the decision is aimed at improving efficiency in handling returnees and reducing pressure at the Mwanza border post.

Matabwa said the situation in Durban remains fluid, with thousands of Malawians still in camp awaiting repatriation, while an estimated 20 buses are currently in transit ferrying returnees back home.

He added that government will continue to provide transport support for both Malawians returning through official government buses and those being deported through South African authorities.

Meanwhile, South African government spokesperson William Baloyi has moved to clarify that there is no 30 June deadline requiring all foreigners to leave the country, dismissing viral claims circulating on social media.

Baloyi warned against misinformation, saying South African law enforcement agencies have already arrested more than 150 individuals accused of inciting violence against foreigners online.

He further assured that authorities will not allow any form of unrest or anarchy on 30 June or any other date.

Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa has welcomed the clarification but urged South African authorities to take stronger action against those promoting xenophobic threats and spreading false information.

The repatriation exercise continues as thousands of Malawians await clearance and transport home amid heightened regional concern.