DURBAN, KwaZulu-Natal – A rapidly expanding makeshift settlement has taken shape in an open field in Sherwood, as thousands of foreign nationals seek refuge after abandoning their homes over security concerns. The majority of those camping at the site are Malawian citizens, though individuals from several other African nations are also present. Most are hoping to secure passage back to their home countries before June 30.
Camp occupants report receiving inconsistent evacuation warnings from landlords and local contacts, with some told to vacate by June 15 and others given a June 25 deadline. With formal employment largely inaccessible due to fears of police intervention, many residents say they have few alternatives and are now relying on organized transport arrangements to leave the country.
To streamline the departure process, residents have appointed on-site coordinators who are compiling registration lists for repatriation. One Malawian man, who previously lived in Chatsworth, explained that the system requires strict compliance: individuals must be physically present in Sherwood to board the designated vehicles. He emphasized that buses will not make return trips for those who miss departure day. When asked whether he faced direct personal threats, the man pointed to the overall deterioration of conditions as his primary reason for leaving, stating firmly that he has no intention of remaining in South Africa.
The settlement continues to swell as new arrivals filter in from across Durban and northern KwaZulu-Natal, many carrying their household belongings. Among the crowd are numerous toddlers and young children. Relief supplies have been distributed to support those waiting, including sleeping mattresses, thermal blankets, food parcels, and essential infant care items.
Local law enforcement has maintained a strong presence at the site. Municipal metro officers and provincial police are conducting regular patrols, with authorities confirming they will remain on-site to ensure security until the repatriation process is fully concluded. Officials indicate that documentation and verification procedures are already underway for those wishing to depart.
Transport logistics are reportedly being finalized, with departure vehicles expected to arrive within the coming days. As the camp continues to accept new registrations and arrivals, thousands remain in a state of waiting, anticipating the buses that will provide their route home.