Obey Musiwa
Herald Reporter
More than 80 000 Malawians fleeing from South Africa have passed through a temporary reception centre at Nyamapanda border post where they have received shelter, water, sanitation and basic health care.
The centre was set up by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) after anti-migrant violence in South Africa pushed thousands of people to leave.
The facility opened one month after MSF began supporting returnees at the Beitbridge Reception Centre.
As migrants’ routes changed, the organisation extended its response to Nyamapanda, which links Zimbabwe to Mozambique and is a key transit point for travellers heading to Malawi.
Speaking to Zimpapers, MSF Emergency Coordinator Mr Hebert Mutubuki said the migrants arrive in poor physical and emotional condition.
“Many of the people arriving at Nyamapanda are exhausted and under a lot of stress after a long and difficult journey, and some are dealing with emotional trauma,” he said.
“Just as importantly, a hot meal, water and a safe place to rest help ensure that people are treated with dignity.”
Mr Mutubuki said reaching the border does not mark the end of the journey.
“Reaching the border does not necessarily mean reaching their destination.
“For people who may already have spent days travelling, this can create additional challenges, including finding somewhere safe to sleep, accessing water, sanitation and food,” he said.
MSF has built toilets and washing areas at the centre and also restored water supply connections and renovated clinic infrastructure.
Mr Mutubuki said the team is also treating chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, as well as skin conditions.
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