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Hope on the Horizon

For refugees who have spent years in Malawi, there may finally be a glimmer of hope. The new administration is considering integrating some long-term refugees. This is a policy shift we have long advocated for. If implemented, integration could enable refugees to contribute their skills to Malawi’s economy through employment or business, while giving them the opportunity to build more self-reliant lives and support their families.

The shift comes as the refugee response faces a severe funding crisis. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR’s) funding for Malawi has reportedly fallen by about 90% between 2025 and 2026, while cuts to World Food Programme (WFP) assistance have reduced refugees’ access to food and livelihoods. These pressures have deepened vulnerability in Dzaleka, with growing concerns around crime, exploitation, and protection.

Fresh Calls to Stifle Refugee Businesses

Just as hope grows for the integration of some refugees, there are calls to shut down their businesses once again.

The Small-Scale Business Operators Association of Malawi (SSBOAM), which in 2023 demanded the removal of refugees from communities and their return to Dzaleka, is now urging the government to reconsider its plans for refugee integration. The association argues that refugee-owned businesses are giving local traders unfair competition.

But in Mgona Township, Lilongwe, residents warmly welcomed the return of some refugee traders to the local market after three years, saying their absence had cost many Malawians jobs and livelihoods and that the loss of economic activity contributed to increased crime in the area.

Malawi needs inclusive economic policies that allow refugees and Malawians to prosper together—not further exclusion and relocation. We are therefore encouraged by Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito’s pledge to balance the regulation of refugee businesses and protection of Malawian traders while upholding Malawi’s humanitarian obligations.

A Warm Welcome to Our New Board Members

We are pleased to welcome four new members to our Board: Kelvin Chirwa, National Coordinator of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC); Happy Njalam’mano, a communications professional at the Independent Complaints Commission (ICC); Chikondi Samuel Duke, a legal professional with the Legal Aid Bureau; and Scader Louis, a former Commissioner of the Malawi Human Rights Commission and a human rights and compliance professional.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to outgoing board members Grace Thindwa and Charles Nyekanyeka, who each served on the Board for a long time. Their commitment has been an important part of Inua’s journey.

The Board held its first meeting on Friday, during which Chirwa was elected Chairperson, with Hleziwe Hara elected as Vice Chairperson. We look forward to a new chapter of stronger advocacy and renewed momentum for refugee rights.