Malawians’ unnatural deaths in SA raise alarm

Concern has been raised over the deaths of Malawian nationals in South Africa, with authorities reporting that some of the bodies repatriated to Malawi showed signs of unnatural deaths.

An unnatural death is one caused by an external factor rather than illness or old age. Such deaths can result from road accidents, drowning, falls, fires, poisoning, drug overdoses, suicide or homicide.

In contrast, a natural death is caused by illness, disease or age-related conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, dementia, heart attacks, strokes and serious infections.

The concern comes as 123 bodies were repatriated through Mwanza Border Post between January and June this year.

Director of Health Services for Mwanza, Dr Francis Makiya, said medical examinations conducted on the bodies found that some had injuries consistent with gunshot wounds, stab wounds and accidents.

“When we examine the bodies, we find that most have wounds,” Makiya said.

He said the findings were concerning and called for further investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Malawian nationals abroad.

“According to our examination, there are indications that something is happening that is causing the deaths,” Makiya said.

Makiya has since called on relevant authorities to conduct thorough investigations into the deaths and establish the circumstances under which Malawians are losing their lives, particularly those returning from South Africa.