Approximately 400 legally documented refugees have been camping outside Durban's Refugee Reception Centre for a month, fleeing xenophobic violence and unable to return home.

The group, predominantly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, claims they are seeking temporary accommodation rather than free housing, as stated by eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba.Raphael Bahebwa of the Congolese Solidarity Campaign highlighted that the refugees only want safe shelter from attacks, not permanent residency.Many were forced to leave their homes and businesses after being threatened or assaulted, with some suffering injuries.

The mayor's claim about 'free housing' has been condemned as politically motivated, with activist groups accusing him of scapegoating refugees for societal issues.

Despite appeals to the government and international bodies like the UNHCR, the refugees remain stranded, awaiting repatriation or reintegration options.Individual accounts reveal trauma, including attacks on families and blocked attempts to return home.The Department of Home Affairs has not responded to queries, leaving the community in limbo.