In defence of refugees

Over the past three decades, Malawi has embraced the One Africa concept, the relaxing of border controls to facilitate free movement and trade on the continent.

However, the recent treatment of refugees and asylum seekers has tarnished Malawi’s image as the Warm Heart of Africa.

To maintain a reputation as a vital player in continental politics, the country must be sensitive to how we treat our fellow Africans.

First, the majority of refugees who have integrated into Malawian society have caused no harm within the host communities.

Speak to Malawians residing or trading in Area 36, Mgona and Area 25 in Lilongwe, you will be amazed by the positive reviews as these refugees mind their own business, demonstrate commitment to their enterprises and actively engage in community initiatives.

That they have become part of the Malawian society should not be up for debate.

Personally, my interactions with refugees from the Great Lakes Region have been both special and profound.

For instance, Eric, my beloved barber on Devils Street in Lilongwe, escaped death in the war-torn eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and dreams of relocating to the US to chase the American dream.

Nuru, a lovely Tanzanian who provides soothing full-body massages at Bwandilo, loves Malawi and proudly extols the country’s beauty and peace.

Yusuf, the charismatic Rwandan grocer in my Area 49 community, is always surrounded by children eager to listen to his captivating tales and benefits the community with his flexible credit terms.

Unfortunately, all these friends have been sent back to Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa in a sweeping exercise, leaving me and hundreds of other Malawians poorer rather than richer.

Undeniably, the law must be followed to the letter. However, Edmund Burke reminds us that “laws, like houses, lean on one another”.

Laws are interdependent structures that profoundly impact people’s lives.

Just as houses provide shelter and comfort, laws should be designed with a human face to serve and protect the needs, rights and well-being of individuals within society.

What does the nation lose by vetting these refugees and integrating them into Malawian society?

In fact, hundreds of them were born in Malawi or arrived in the country as toddlers and the country is the only home they know.

What harm do they cause to this country?

“The measure of the greatness of a society is found in the way it treats those most in need,” observed Pope Francis.

Laws shape a just and compassionate society if crafted with a human face to ensure the vulnerable and marginalised members receive equitable treatment, protection and opportunities.

Some argue that integrating refugees denies Malawians business and job opportunities, but confining 60 000 people to a camp does not address the underlying problems the country faces.

A society can be measured by its commitment to justice and human rights.

The idea of citizenship in Africa is a captivating tapestry of diverse origins. In enchanting Malawi, our roots intertwine, stretching back to Mozambique, Congo and South Africa.

We converge here, shaping a beautiful mosaic of identities.

Consequently, labelling someone arriving from Congo as an ‘alien’ solely because they arrived here later seems unfair.

Let us embrace our shared heritage and celebrate the fluidity of our African citizenship.

By welcoming refugees into our society, we demonstrate the strength of our humanity and our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate Malawi.

Malawi has an opportunity to lead the way in refugee integration, showcasing the true meaning of ubuntu—the understanding that we thrive when we support one another.

By treating refugees with dignity and respect, we not only fulfill our moral obligations but also strengthen our nation as a regional player and the Warm Heart of Africa.

Let us choose empathy over indifference, unity over division and compassion over exclusion. Let us shape a brighter future for all.