Two South African girls trafficked to Malawi set to return home

Johannesburg – Two South African children rescued after being trafficked to Malawi are expected to return home on Thursday.

Social Development Minister Dina Pule is set to receive the two girls, aged nine and 15, at OR Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park, Gauteng.

The children were trafficked across South Africa’s borders into Malawi and are being repatriated as part of government’s efforts to protect and support children who have been subjected to trafficking and exploitation.

“Their return forms part of South Africa’s repatriation process aimed at ensuring the safe return of children who have been subjected to trafficking and exploitation,” the department said.

“Their reception forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to protect children from trafficking and exploitation, ensure their safe repatriation into the country, and facilitate access to appropriate care, protection and support services.”

The department added: “To date, the Department of Social Development has repatriated 22 children.”

It works with the Departments of International Relations and Cooperation and Home Affairs, as well as the South African Police Service, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Border Management Authority and civil society organisations to facilitate the safe return and reintegration of trafficking victims.

Pule is expected to receive the children at 11am on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

The department has urged the media to respect the children’s privacy and dignity by refraining from photographing, filming or identifying them without appropriate consent and safeguarding arrangements.