By Wendy Mkandawire
The National Children’s Commission (NCC) says it will continue working with the Department of Immigration to strengthen child protection at One Stop Border Posts across the country.
Speaking during a visit to the Dedza One Stop Border Post on Monday, August 3, 2026, NCC Commissioner Laika Mtambo Milazi said it is now a priority that every child crossing the border with parents has their documents checked by police or immigration officers.
“The Commission has identified gaps in child protection. These include children traveling alone or crossing the border without proper documentation, which puts them at risk,” Milazi said.
She added that immigration officials have acknowledged the gaps and that the Commission will act to address them.
Dedza District Social Welfare Officer Edward Chisanga said it is important to monitor how children entering or leaving Malawi are treated while waiting for services.
Chisanga noted that the absence of social welfare officers at border posts contributes to violations of children’s rights.
“Vulnerable children often fail to get the psychological support they need upon arrival,” he said.
He stressed that social welfare officers are trained to handle people going through stress, mental health challenges, and depression, and that their presence at border posts is critical.
The NCC says government and partner organizations are working together to eliminate challenges facing children in Malawi.
Key violations highlighted include kidnapping, child labor, and lack of proper documentation for children crossing borders.
This year’s engagements at border posts are part of broader efforts to ensure that child protection systems are strengthened at points of entry and exit.
