PIETERMARITZBURG, KWAZULU-NATAL — Scores of Malawian nationals are currently sheltering at Mayors Walk in Pietermaritzburg after fleeing alleged violence in the Jika Joe informal settlement. With many having lost their jobs and been evicted by their landlords, the displaced individuals are seeking a safe haven and urgent assistance to return to their home country.
The crisis began on a Friday when a small group of about 60 individuals sought refuge in an abandoned building at Mayors Walk. By Saturday, the number of displaced persons had surged to approximately 700. In response, the local municipality allegedly organized four buses to transport the group to Sherwood to join a repatriation and deportation process. However, the effort was halted when they were turned back, as the Sherwood facility reported it could no longer accommodate them due to severe overcrowding.
Since then, the numbers have continued to climb rapidly. According to George, a coordinator from the DBB RSA air wing operating at the DAR Center who has been managing the shelter since Friday, the population is now approaching 2,000. George reported that the current demographics include roughly 150 women, 72 small children, and over 430 men, with new arrivals continuing to register daily.
Living conditions at the makeshift camp have been described as dire and unbearable. While women and children are sheltering inside the abandoned building, the men are forced to stay outside. Many lack blankets, and some have gone without food. Although the Msunduzi Municipality has provided a JoJo tank to supply water, there are no toilet facilities available on the premises. Humanitarian organizations and well-wishers have been supplying food, but coordinators note that donations are currently insufficient to feed the growing population.
Regarding the legal status of the displaced individuals, George noted that the majority are undocumented. However, he emphasized that even those with valid permits were not spared, with some reporting that they were beaten and chased out of their homes despite their documentation.
As the situation remains critical, all eyes are on the anticipated visit from KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli. The Premier is expected to assess the conditions at the site and engage with the sheltered nationals. The displaced Malawians, along with the on-ground coordinators, are hoping the visit will yield positive outcomes, specifically the relocation of the group to a more comfortable and adequately equipped facility, as well as actionable solutions to facilitate their journey back to Malawi.
