Passport Blues Over! Malawi Resumes Issuance with New High-Security System
Malawians can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The government has officially resumed passport processing and issuance services across the country following months of disruption.
Minister of Homeland Security Ezekiel Ching’oma announced Thursday that the new system—developed by Madras Security Printers—is now fully installed and operational. This marks the end of a national headache that began in March 2024 when a cyberattack crippled Malawi’s passport system, leaving thousands stranded without travel documents.
“This is a turning point,” Ching’oma declared. “The long wait is over.”
According to the Minister, the newly implemented system features advanced security enhancements, faster processing, and a decentralized service model designed to bring passport services closer to Malawians in all regions.
“This new platform is not only safer but smarter. It cuts turnaround times significantly while guarding against fraud,” Ching’oma said.
The announcement also comes with a dose of transparency. Ching’oma revealed that the initial temporary fix—contracted to E-Tech Systems—had failed to live up to expectations. Not only did the stop-gap measure experience repeated technical failures, but it also led to the production of passports that were flagged as forged abroad, resulting in the arrest and detention of several Malawians in foreign countries.
“That was unacceptable. Our people deserve better. That’s why we terminated that system and went for a more permanent, reliable solution,” he added.
With the new system now in place, passport centers across Malawi are expected to resume full operations immediately, ushering in a new era of efficient, secure, and citizen-centered service delivery.