The Ministry of Homeland Security says Government is taking urgent steps to address passport shortages, clear application backlogs and improve service delivery following growing public frustration over delays.
In a statement dated 28 October 2026, Minister of Homeland Security Hon. Peter Mukhito acknowledged the hardships caused by delayed passport issuance, which has affected citizens’ employment, education, medical treatment, business and family commitments.
Government attributes the crisis partly to limitations in the existing contract with Madras Security Printers, which provides for 100,000 passport booklets annually over five years, alongside foreign exchange shortages that have disrupted payments and supplies.
The Ministry has outlined five priority interventions: reviewing supply arrangements, resolving outstanding contractual challenges, improving production capacity, accelerating pending applications and strengthening institutional accountability.
Government has also pledged to establish arrangements for verified emergency travel involving medical treatment, education and other urgent humanitarian needs.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has expressed concern over disturbances at the Immigration Offices in Lilongwe that reportedly left an Immigration officer injured and property damaged. It has urged affected applicants to remain peaceful and pursue their grievances through lawful channels.
Government says its ultimate goal is to resolve the immediate shortage and establish a reliable, efficient and sustainable passport issuance system.
