By Pempho Nkhoma

Blantyre, May 30, Mana: Minister of Homeland Security, Ezekiel Ching’oma on Friday presided over pass out of 354 new immigration officers at Police Training School in Limbe, Blantyre, where he urged the new recruits to serve Malawi with patriotism and professionalism.

The minister said role of immigration officers was key aspect in the Malawi 2063 Vision as championed by President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera.

Ching’oma therefore assured the new recruits of government’s commitment in providing conducive work environment and other support for quality service.

He however said government will not tolerate any form of indiscipline and lack of professionalism among immigration officer.

“You must continue to shine through your duties as you are about to embark on your new careers as immigration officers; every law abiding citizen, with whom you are going to interact, must see you as officers who embodies the values of an immigration officer, which include honor, discipline, patriotism, professionalism and commitment,” he added.

The minister reaffirmed government’s commitment in revolutionizing the way immigration services are rendered, and the importance of providing seamless services to citizens and non-citizens.

“Acquiring new skill sets and human capital through the newly enlisted immigration officers who are passing out today, it is an open secret that my ministry has always been concerned with the numerical deficit of our officers entrusted with the responsibility of managing the country’s borders,

“However, the coming in of these new officers will guarantee operational efficiency for the Department of Immigration,” he added.

Acting Director General of Malawi Immigration and Citizenship Services, Macloid Kalindang’oma, advised the graduating officers to strive for provision of highest quality.

“You have to understand that this is an honor to serve your country as an immigration officer. Let me emphasize that we will not shield any officer who will be involved in any form of malpractice,” he said, adding that the department has shortage of staff, and he requested the government to continue supporting them in recruitment of more officers.

During the ceremony, 10 best performing recruits and 10 longest serving officers were also awarded.

A total of 358 people were recruited, 4 left the training for various reasons leaving 354.

Among the 354 recruited officers who passed out, 151 are females while 203 are males.

The 2025 Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services’ Pass-out parade was celebrated under the theme; Raising the Bar of Excellence in Migration Management’.