The growing humanitarian situation outside the Department of Home Affairs offices in Durban has prompted eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to urge national government to intervene and relocate foreign nationals currently sleeping on the streets to suitable refugee centres.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Xaba appealed to the Minister of Home Affairs to urgently secure temporary accommodation for the group, many of whom claim they fear returning to their communities due to safety concerns.For several days, dozens of foreign nationals have been camping outside the Durban Home Affairs offices, exposed to cold weather, poor sanitation, and uncertainty about their future.
The sight of families and children sleeping on pavements has raised concern among residents and human rights organisations.Xaba said the municipality does not have facilities to house the group, warning that leaving vulnerable people on the streets without access to food, shelter, and healthcare was unsustainable.
He said the City was prepared to assist with transport and Metro Police support to ensure a safe relocation process once accommodation had been identified by the Department of Home Affairs.The mayor also highlighted the pressure already facing eThekwini’s resources, particularly as the city continues to accommodate flood victims displaced by recurring natural disasters.
At the same time, Xaba called for tighter controls within immigration offices and stronger action against fraud to ensure permits are issued fairly to legitimate asylum seekers.
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