By Wendy Mkandawire
The Office of the Ombudsman has revealed systemic failures and administrative breakdowns in service delivery at the Department of Immigration, citing serious concerns over efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
Speaking during the media briefing on Tuesday 30 June 2026 Ombudsman Chairperson Grace Malera said, investigations found significant failures within the immigration system.
She stated that urgent reforms are needed to restore efficiency, accountability, and public trust.
Malera also mentioned that the probe also uncovered the infiltration of unofficial intermediaries, commonly known as ‘dobadoba,’ who demand extra fees on top of official charges. She described the practice as unethical conduct and malpractice.
Commenting on the matter, the Director General of the Department of Immigration said the department acknowledges the issues raised and will take steps to address them.
” The report was very important because it has indicated all the areas that needs to be worked in starting from administrative, legal and infrastructural among others”, he explained.
The Ombudsman’s findings come amid widespread public complaints about long delays, a lack of transparency, and alleged corruption at immigration offices across the country.
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Wendy Mkandawire is a journalist for Leyman Publications based in Lilongwe, Malawi. |
