At least 15,394 migrants returned from South Africa through Mozambique between April and July 2026, during a period marked by protests and rising tensions against foreign nationals in that country. The majority were Malawian citizens transiting Mozambican territory on their way home.

The figures are drawn from a migration flow monitoring report published by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) on Tuesday, 20 October.

According to the document, Malawian nationals accounted for 76% of all returnees, totalling 11,699 individuals, while Mozambicans made up the remaining 24%, or 3,695 people.

Adult men represented 73% of the migrants recorded, followed by adult women at 22%, and children under 18 at 5%.

Among returning Mozambicans, Gaza province was the most common final destination, accounting for 42% of identified cases. Inhambane followed with 18%, and Maputo province with 14%.

The report further notes that 74% of migrants received transport assistance to reach their destinations, while 20% indicated they required additional support to continue their journey. The remaining 6% said they had fully self-funded their return.

The IOM recorded a decline in movement in April, coinciding with reports of mobility restrictions in South Africa. Flows increased again in subsequent months before a further reduction at the end of June.

Data collection was carried out at the Ressano Garcia border post, between Mozambique and South Africa, and at Zóbuè, on the border with Malawi.

South Africa remains a significant destination for migrants from the region, despite economic difficulties and recurring episodes of xenophobic violence affecting foreign communities.