Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is preparing to repatriate 669 citizens from South Africa following a wave of anti-foreigner sentiment, with the first group expected to return on August 26, 2026.
The Tanzanian High Commission in South Africa said the voluntary repatriation exercise will involve citizens living in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly Durban, who have expressed a desire to return home amid the prevailing situation.
According to a special notice issued by the High Commission on Friday, August 21, 2026, Tanzanians in KwaZulu-Natal wishing to return home will be processed for voluntary repatriation permits on August 25 and 26.
The return journey will be facilitated by Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), with the flight scheduled to depart from King Shaka International Airport in Durban on August 26.
“Tanzanians who have expressed interest in returning to remain patient as authorities complete the necessary arrangements,” urges the High Commission.
It has also asked those holding asylum-seeker certificates to remain at the processing centre until their permits are completed.
Those eligible include Tanzanians whose asylum-seeker certificates were issued by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, those without passports, and children born in South Africa to Tanzanian parents.
The notice also covers children whose mother is a South African citizen and whose father is Tanzanian, provided the required consent and court documents are available.
Applicants have been advised to carry two passport-size photographs and relevant travel documents.
Those who complete the process but do not have passports will be issued emergency travel documents to facilitate their return home.
The processing centre will be at City View Mall, 10 Mathews Meyiwa Road, Greyville, Durban, and will operate from 6 am.
The High Commission said other Tanzanians wishing to return should await further official announcements on subsequent repatriation arrangements.
