Passport delays disrupt jobs and medical travel in this African country

The government of Malawi has apologised to citizens affected by a passport crisis that has disrupted employment opportunities, education, medical treatment and other essential travel plans.

Malawi’s Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito issued the apology on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, as authorities faced mounting frustration over delays in issuing travel documents.

According to Nyasa Times, Mukhito acknowledged the hardship experienced by applicants and said the government was taking urgent steps to address the shortage of passport booklets.

“We deeply regret the inconvenience, frustration and hardship experienced by citizens whose employment opportunities, education, medical treatment, business engagements and family obligations have been affected by passport delays,” the minister said.

Why passport applications are delayed

The government has attributed the crisis partly to foreign exchange shortages and problems with its supply contract with Madras Security Printers.

The agreement provides for the supply of 100 000 passport booklets annually over five years.

However, difficulties accessing foreign currency have affected payments to the supplier, contributing to delivery disruptions and a growing backlog of applications.

Malawi has faced passport processing challenges for several years.

In June 2026, Nation Online reported that applicants were experiencing lengthy waits, with foreign exchange shortages and operational problems affecting production.

The latest developments have intensified pressure on immigration authorities to restore normal services.

Passport delays spark unrest

The government’s apology came after disturbances at immigration offices in Lilongwe on Wednesday left an immigration officer injured and property damaged, according to the ministry.

Mukhito urged applicants to express their frustrations through lawful channels, warning that violence could further disrupt services needed by citizens.

The unrest highlights the pressure facing authorities as applicants wait for documents needed to pursue opportunities at home and abroad.

Government promises urgent action

Mukhito said the government was reviewing the supply contract, engaging the contractor over outstanding payments and exploring ways to increase passport production.

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services will also prioritise outstanding applications and consider verified emergency cases involving medical treatment, education and other urgent humanitarian travel.

However, the minister did not provide a specific date for when passport supplies would return to normal.

The government said it would communicate confirmed delivery schedules and provide updates on efforts to clear the backlog.

For applicants hoping to travel for work, study or medical treatment, uncertainty remains over when the delays will end.