Hundreds of refugees living at the Wingfield site in Maitland and Paint City in Bellville have been given temporary relief after their eviction case was postponed to 28 October in the Western Cape High Court. The matter had been due to be heard last week.

The case was brought by the City of Cape Town together with the national departments of Home Affairs and Public Works. They want the occupants removed from the two emergency housing sites. The refugees are opposing the application.

Why the Sites Were Created

The large white tents were first erected during the Covid-19 period. They were meant to house refugees who had asked the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to help resettle them in Europe, saying they feared xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

According to court papers seen by GroundUp, the UNHCR is now expected to host negotiations between the parties and submit a report by 2 June. That could shape what happens before the matter returns to court later this year.

Refugees Fear Another Hard Winter

For families still living on the sites, the delay brings some breathing room, but not real comfort. Faraja Augustin, who lives at Wingfield, told GroundUp the community has been staying in makeshift structures since a fire destroyed the tent there in November.

He said people are worried about the coming winter and feel ignored. Augustin also said he is open to reintegration, but believes refugees need help with their documents first. He also raised concerns about anti-immigrant groups.

City and Rights Groups Clash on Solution

City spokesperson Luthando Tyhalibongo said the City wants an order for the groups to be repatriated or reintegrated into South African society, which he said they have refused so far. He has also previously said the widespread xenophobic violence feared by the group had not materialised.

But Lawyers for Human Rights attorney Louise du Plessis told GroundUp the threat of xenophobia remains real for some refugees, including people who have lost relatives in attacks. She said recognised refugees have the same housing rights as South Africans and that both local and national government have responsibilities toward them.

The UNHCR said its role is strictly humanitarian and that it is ready to support people who choose lawful and available solutions.