Undocumented migrants have been left stranded outside a former Home Affairs repatriation center in Epping, Cape town Following the 30 June deadline protests, the Epping facility has turned into a temporary shelter for helpless men, women and children after the site was reportedly shut down, leaving many with no place to hide.
Some of those affected are Zimbabwean and Malawian nationals who had previously been working on farms outside Cape Town. Majority arrived carrying bags, blankets and small children, not sure about government next move after buses transporting responsible to transport them was full. Residents and volunteers described scenes of frustration, confusion and desperation as cold temperatures increased overnight putting their life health at risk.
With no formal accommodation in place, community organisation and ordinary residents stepped in to provide emergency support. Volunteers distributed food, juice, bread and sanitary essentials to those sleeping outdoors, while law enforcement officers monitored the area throughout the weekend. The city did not grant permission for a tent to be erected on the field, says Dr. Naeem Kathrada Head of the Gift of the Givers medical team
Zimbabwean uber driver Wellington Konde says he and fellow countrymen have organised aid through their WhatsApp group to assist those stranded in Epping.
“We decided to put together the small, little that we have so that we can contribute to helping our family. We are also foreigners working here so we can come help here with the little that we have, we don’t have much. I think we’ve got bread, butter, stuff used on the bread and juice. If we have more, we can still come for a second round, so whatever we have we can come give out of our own pockets. There’s no pressure.” says Zimbabwean uber driver Wellington Konde and also added he will organize the aid to assist the homeboys.
Epping has previously been used as a processing point during immigration operations, but aid workers say the current situation highlights broader challenges linked to migration, unemployment and strained public resources in South Africa.
