29/06/2024
The Rights of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Malawi
I was heartbroken to learn that sometimes asylum seekers in Malawi wait for up to 10 years without receiving a decision or being granted refugee status. These individuals, many of whom have fled unimaginable circumstances, receive a mere $5 a month (MK12,000) per person. What can this paltry sum achieve?
In Dzaleka Refugee Camp, children born there are not permitted to attend government schools. Additionally, refugees are not allowed to engage in business. How can we subject our own brothers and sisters to such conditions? The authorities claim it is the law, but is this truly the best we can do?
I questioned and challenged the Immigration Department and Homeland Security authorities about whether more could be done to improve these conditions. I was comforted to learn that the Malawi Law Society, along with relevant authorities, is working on amending these laws. These people did not choose to flee their countries; it can happen to anyone, God forbid. We should be utilizing their skills and integrating them into our society.
The recent engagement, attended by political leaders, traditional authorities, district councils, and immigration officers, highlighted the urgent need for reform. We can draw lessons from other Western countries on how they treat refugees, especially considering that Malawi is a signatory to the international conventions on refugee rights.
The sad part is, I hear they are not allowed to leave the camp. Really? They are basically in prison. The conditions are not good at all. I interacted with one of the refugees from the camp, and she shared her experiences. My heart bleeds. As Africans, we must take care of one another and eliminate the borders. These borders were created without our consent, but we are one people. "Umunthu" must guide our way of life. I am because we are.
Let us remember that these individuals are our brothers and sisters. We must strive to ensure that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. By amending our laws and integrating refugees into our society, we can benefit from their skills and experiences while upholding our humanitarian obligations.
