Home Affairs Confirms 12 Births at Malawian Migrant Camp in Durban’s Sherwood Area
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that 12 babies have been born at a makeshift camp in Sherwood, Durban, where thousands of Malawian nationals have been sheltering since early June 2026.
The encampment at Sherwood Community Hall emerged after Malawians, along with some other foreign nationals, fled their homes and workplaces across KwaZulu-Natal amid anti-migrant protests and tensions. Many reported being displaced by residents or landlords, with some losing employment due to documentation issues.
Home Affairs officials have verified that the majority of those at the site estimates ranging from over 1,000 to nearly 1,900 individuals are in South Africa illegally. A large-scale voluntary repatriation operation is underway, supported by the Malawian government, with multiple buses ferrying groups, prioritising women and children, back to Malawi.
Conditions at the open-air camp have raised humanitarian concerns, including reports of dehydration, illness, and challenges in caring for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, toddlers, and newborns. Aid in the form of mattresses, blankets, food, and baby supplies has been provided, but delays in processing have prolonged the stay for many.
Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza and departmental spokesperson Thulani Mavuso have been involved in oversight, with a priority court established in Durban to expedite related immigration cases.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges around migration, documentation, and community tensions in parts of South Africa. Repatriation efforts continue as authorities work to resolve the standoff.
