72 Namibians Repatriated from South Africa on July 12

Seventy-two Namibians were repatriated from South Africa to Namibia on July 12 and returned to their regions of origin. The voluntary returns followed xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa driven by anger over unemployment, crime and illegal immigration.

Acting executive director of international relations and trade Secilia Hiskia said on July 15 that future assistance requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis through appropriate government processes.

She added that it would be premature to speculate about hypothetical future scenarios. Hiskia described the exercise as a humanitarian intervention for citizens who requested to return home and stated that those repatriated remain free to decide where they live, work and travel in Namibia.

More than 100 Namibians living in South Africa, both legally and illegally, have requested voluntary repatriation due to rising tensions.

Minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security Lucia Iipumbu said another group is expected to be repatriated on July 17. Oshana governor Hofni Ipinge said most returnees in his region went directly to their families rather than using temporary accommodation.

He reported that some told authorities they would remain in Namibia if the government provides employment opportunities and urged residents to support the returnees who lost homes and belongings.

Independent Patriots for Change shadow minister Rodney Cloete said the Ministry of International Relations and Trade did not appear to have planned or budgeted for repatriation eventualities. He stated that the government has a duty to assist Namibians in distress in foreign countries.