By Lovemore Khomo and Chrispin Lwanja
Minister of Homeland Security Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma has called for support from both local and international community in order to provide a conducive environment for refugees in the country.
Ng’oma made the call as Malawi commemorates World Refugee Day which falls on 20th June every year.
According to Ng’oma, government remains committed to host and support refugees and asylum seekers, as there are plans to ensure that such individuals are documented and included in the national agenda.
Ng’oma disclosed that so far about 1955 refugees and asylum seekers have returned to Dzaleka Refugee Camp.
“Malawi as a signatory to the UN conventions opened its borders to people seeking asylum and has been a home and hope to refugees whom majority are from the Great Lakes Region for decades.” said Ng’oma.
The Homeland and Security Minister explained that peace and tranquillity that prevails in Malawi coupled with the warm heartedness of its people has always given hope to asylum seekers evidenced by the coexistence of the two communities for years.
He therefore, commended the Malawi Police Service, Immigration Department, Department for Refugees, Malawi Prison Service and other stakeholders that have played a role to ensure the relocation exercise is done professionally and within the Law.
On the other hand, Ken Zikhale Ng’oma applauded the citizenry for the patriotism and cooperation and not interfering with the relocation exercise, then UNHCR and other partners for the support rendered in the management of the refugee camp.
The World Refugee Day Commemoration falls on 20th June every year and this year the day is being commemorated under the theme “Hope away from Home.”
