By Synd Kalimbuka
The Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito, has briefed the nation on critical security and public safety issues, outlining government actions on passport delays, corruption in immigration services, human trafficking, and the growing number of road accidents involving Kabaza operators.
The briefing was held in Lilongwe on Friday.
On the matter of passport issuance, the minister explained that delays stem from a contract signed in February 2025 between the Government of Malawi and Madras Security Printers of India for the supply and installation of a new passport printing system.
The contract required a 60 percent upfront payment amounting to USD 17.9 million to allow full mobilisation of the contractor.
However, by the time the current administration assumed office, only USD 9 million had been paid, significantly disrupting implementation.
Minister Mukhito said the government has since re-engaged the contractor, resulting in the delivery of 10,000 passport booklets in early January 2026 as an interim measure to ease pressure on applicants.
He further announced that three heavy-duty passport printing machines are expected to arrive next week, marking a major step toward resolving the long-standing backlog in passport processing.
According to the minister, each machine has the capacity to print up to 2,000 passport booklets per day and will be decentralised to Mzuzu, Lilongwe, and Blantyre to improve efficiency, reduce turnaround time, and enhance access to services nationwide.
Addressing corruption within the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, the minister acknowledged the problem and confirmed that investigations are underway by the Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Malawi Police Service following the exposure of illegal solicitation of bribes.
He warned that corruption, abuse of office, and involvement in human trafficking will not be tolerated, stressing that public servants found engaging in such activities will face the full force of the law.
The minister also highlighted road safety concerns linked to Kabaza operators, stating that government has established a joint task team to enforce traffic regulations, improve rider training, and strengthen public safety across the country.
