A medical doctor and public health expert has warned that Malawi faces growing healthcare and humanitarian challenges following the return of more than 40,000 citizens who fled South Africa amid ongoing xenophobic attacks.
According to Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs, 40,448 returnees have arrived in the country, including 12,507 women, 27,941 men, 2,385 children under the age of five and 440 pregnant women. Authorities have also confirmed that six people died during the repatriation process.
Medical doctor and public health expert Dr Mwai Makoka said many returnees are arriving without access to essential healthcare after lengthy journeys disrupted treatment for those living with chronic illnesses.
“For lack of preparation for the long journey, some people on chronic medication travelled with little or no medication at all, causing them to lose treatment adherence. For tuberculosis (TB) and HIV medication, this risks worsening of their conditions and the emergence of drug resistance,” Makoka said.
He warned that many returnees reached Malawi without medical records, making it difficult for healthcare workers to continue treatment. Makoka added that the country’s healthcare system, particularly at community level, is likely to come under increased pressure as it responds to the influx of returnees.
He also raised concerns about the mental health impact of the mass return, noting that some returnees are struggling to cope with the uncertainty of rebuilding their lives.
“Suicide cases have already been reported among the returnees. Anxiety and depression are expected as most of the returnees face an uncertain future, experience stigma and shame as failed adventurers,” Makoka said.
He called for a coordinated response involving government, healthcare providers, faith-based organisations and civil society to provide medical, psychosocial and economic support. Makoka also urged Southern African countries to develop long-term strategies that promote safe, regular and orderly migration across the region.
Photo: Facebook/ Malawian Department of Disaster Management Affairs
