Government commits in supporting refugees and asylum seekers

Dowa, July 5, Mana: Government has committed to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the country while at the same time urged refugees to continue to honor the laws of the country.

Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Homeland Security, Erica Maganga, made the remarks Thursday at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa when Malawi observed World Refugee Day.

Maganga said Malawi continues to be a nation that has opened her doors to people fleeing conflict and persecution from their countries, offering them sanctuary, dignity and hope.

"Today we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of compassion, generosity and solidarity that defines us as a people. We stand as a beacon of hope in a world too often marked by division and discord, demonstrating that when we come together in cohesion, there is no challenge too great for us to overcome," she said.

However, she urged refugees and asylum seekers to respect the laws of Malawi.

"I wish to emphasize that such a collective action comes with responsibility on refugees and asylum seekers to respect and uphold the laws of Malawi," said Maganga.

She said as the country observes the day, it is imperative to recognize the immense challenges faced by refugees across the world, too hard to imagine.

Maganga said refugees demonstrate extraordinary resilience, courage, strength and determination for a better tomorrow.

She further said government and partners should rekindle that hope by offering support for them to rebuild their lives.

"As we strive to build a more inclusive and equitable world, we must redouble our efforts to ensure that refugees are not only protected but also empowered to thrive.

"This requires us to invest in education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities and psychosocial support for refugees and host communities alike," she said.

Government has identified a new refugee camp site in Chitipa where it will ensure that there are improved services, facilities and land for agriculture.

Meanwhile, the Malawi Law Society has started review of the 1989 Refugees Act in order to create a favorable legal environment for refugees.

Commissioner for Refugees General Ignacio Maulana said there is work to be done to see an improved management of refugees and asylum seekers in the country.

"Unfortunately we cannot do this alone; we need assistance of the whole society so that together we build solutions that are sustainable and in the interests of all the persons of concern and the nation at large," he said.

He called for peace at the camp and for partners to understand the needs of refugees in order to provide the right support.

Dzaleeka Refugee Camp Manager, Elton Phulusa, commended partners for their help towards the camp.

He said congestion is a big challenge as there are daily arrivals of refugees at the camp which, currently, hosts over 54,000, way beyond the initial 12,000 recommendation.

"This has brought challenges in terms of provision of shelter, security, education, food and health services. So, the establishment of a new camp in Chitipa will help ease some of the challenges here," said Phulusa.

Abdikarim Taashir Ismael, who spoke on behalf of the refugee community applauded stakeholders in ensuring dignity for asylum seekers.

He bemoaned that some articles in the country create restrictions for refugees to access some fundamental rights and opportunities, hence hindering the development and quest for their self-sufficient lives.

"By lifting these restrictions, we can empower refugees to work, move freely and integrate into society. It would allow refugees to support themselves and their families, reducing the financial burden on partners.

"Furthermore, fostering an environment where refugees can thrive and contribute benefits not only the refugees but also the broader community. Refugees bring with them diverse skills, experiences and perspectives that can enrich the cultural and economic fabric of Malawi," he said.

Group Village Head Chimtengo of Traditional Authority Mkukula asked for a vehicle for police officers saying it becomes a challenge to respond to emergencies during the night.

Instituted in 2001, the day is annually cerebrated on June 20 to honor the plight and bravery of refugees. This year Malawi observed the day on July 4 due to the recent 21 days mourning period the country was in following the death of the immediate past Vice President, Dr Saulos Chilima.