CAPE TOWN, Western Cape — The Epping Refugee Reception Office in the Western Cape has officially resumed its standard administrative functions this Monday, marking the end of a large-scale voluntary repatriation operation. The temporary humanitarian initiative, managed by the Department of Home Affairs, successfully facilitated the safe return of thousands of foreign nationals to their home countries over the weekend.
A Massive Logistical Undertaking
Over the weekend, authorities successfully relocated foreign nationals who had opted for voluntary repatriation from the Cape Town facility to the Musina Repatriation Centre located in Limpopo. This complex transfer marks the end of the emergency support operations that had temporarily taken over the Epping site.
The surge in repatriation requests began on 21 June 2026, when approximately 1,800 Zimbabwean citizens—many of whom were women and children—arrived at the office seeking assistance to return home. Shortly after, a group of Malawian nationals also arrived to submit similar requests.
Repatriation by the Numbers
Through the dedicated efforts of ground staff and partner organizations, the temporary operation processed a substantial number of individuals in a short timeframe. The final demographic breakdown of the successful transfer includes:
- Total Individuals Processed: 3,252
- Zimbabwean Nationals: 3,155
- Malawian Nationals: 97
Collaborative Humanitarian Effort
The seamless execution of this operation was made possible through extensive collaboration. The Department of Home Affairs worked closely with the City of Cape Town, alongside various civil society groups and faith-based organizations, to ensure the safe, efficient, and dignified transfer of those requesting to return home.
By 06:00 on Sunday, 5 July 2026, all on-site humanitarian assistance at the Epping facility was officially wrapped up, paving the way for the office’s return to its regular daily schedule.
New Guidelines for Future Applicants
With the temporary operation now closed, the Department of Home Affairs has issued updated guidance for foreign nationals residing in the region.
Authorities emphasize that individuals requiring assistance with voluntary repatriation should no longer report to the Epping Refugee Reception Office. Moving forward, all future requests and inquiries regarding returning home must be directed to the relevant national consulates for appropriate assistance and processing.