Scores of Malawian nationals gathered near North Beach in Durban as they prepared to return to their home country on Wednesday, according to Sowetan.

According to SABC News, more than 8,000 Malawian nationals in KwaZulu-Natal have been processed by Home Affairs as they request repatriation. This increase in requests reflects a growing trend among foreign nationals in the region seeking to return to their home countries.

As police intensify their efforts, more foreigners, including Zimbabwean nationals, are seeking to leave the country. The situation has prompted a significant number of individuals to arrange for repatriation amid the ongoing crackdown.

In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.

Nigerians in South Africa protested at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria over delays in repatriation flights for citizens wishing to return home. This demonstration occurred after the federal government initiated the evacuation process amid rising concerns about xenophobic attacks, with a deadline set for June 30, according to African Examiner.

As the June 30 anti-immigration protests approach, foreign nationals and community leaders in Cape Town express concerns for their safety, urging for calm amidst rising tensions. Law enforcement agencies are preparing for possible unrest, highlighting the anxiety within the community, according to IOL.