Opposition members of Parliament on Tuesday took government to task over its efforts to export Malawian labour force to South Korea, demanding that government should first get the House’s approval before sending Malawian youths.
This follows a report by the Amnesty International (AI) which has indicated that migrant workers in that country suffer discrimination, sexual and physical abuses, low and unpaid wages apart from exploitation.
In a special question time to Minister of Labour Eunice Makangala, Ntcheu Bwanje North parliamentarian Steven Kamwendo (DPP) said government needs to thoroughly consult before sending its workforce to South Korea, Kuwait and Dubai.
“It is surprising that government has engaged in this labour exportation programme without seeking approval from the august House. The minister is aware that we have a committee on international relations. Has the committee been consulted or briefed on the matter?” he said.
He said government needs to consider the state of working conditions in the three countries.
“I think each and every parent of the listed children has a similar feeling to know what is going to happen to their children. All along, Malawi has been lamenting about brain drain?” said Kamwendo.
Nsanje Central MP Francis Kasaila (DPP) also said government needs to sign a clear agreement with the South Korean government before the youth are sent to work in that country.
In her response, Makangala said the labour exportation initiative is among government efforts to address unemployment in the country, adding that government will inform the House on further details of the initiative at an “opportune” time.
“Malawi has historically been exporting labour to countries such as South Africa and Zimbabwe. At an opportune time, Parliament and the committee will be informed of details of the programme. As of now, we are still working on the modalities of the programme,” said Makangala.
