Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera, MFN Reporter | October 29, 2026
Malawi’s Ministry of Homeland Security has announced urgent measures to address passport shortages and clear a growing backlog of applications, apologising to citizens whose employment, education, medical treatment and business activities have been disrupted by the delays.
In a press release dated October 28, 2026, Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito acknowledged the challenges facing applicants and apologised for the inconvenience caused by difficulties in accessing passports.
The ministry attributed the shortage partly to limitations in the supply contract with Madras Security Printers and foreign exchange shortages affecting payments.
The delays have raised concerns among Malawians who depend on passports to pursue employment opportunities abroad, attend educational programmes, access specialised medical treatment and conduct international business.
The government’s announced intervention is intended to ease the shortage and reduce the backlog of pending applications. However, the specific measures and timeline for clearing outstanding applications have not been provided in the information available.
The key test will be how quickly the intervention improves passport availability and helps affected Malawians resume their travel plans.
