In a recent TV interview with eNCA, migration scholar and ACMS co-director Associate Professor Jo Vearey reflected on the ongoing situation involving Malawian nationals sheltering at Sherwood Hall in Durban, and what this reveals about migration governance, humanitarian protection and state accountability in South Africa.

Prof. Vearey describes the situation as: “really a crisis in terms of broader governance responses,” arguing that people would not seek refuge in public shelters unless they felt genuinely threatened and fearful.

She also warns against the growing impact of xenophobic vigilantism and misinformation, noting that: “we haven’t heard clear messaging from the state around the dangers that these narratives are presenting.”

Importantly, she emphasises that the consequences extend beyond migrants themselves: “It’s not only foreign nationals that are being affected, it’s also South African citizens.”

As the debates continue around repatriation, deportation processes, and immigration enforcement, Vearey stresses upholding due process, legal protections, and constitutional rights for all.

Catch this critical TV interview below: