By Rahim Abdul
A recent report by the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has revealed alarming trends in the country’s child adoption processes.
Between 2017 and 2024, a total of 423 children were adopted, with the majority being taken to Brazil and the United States of America.
The report highlights concerns about the lack of a robust legal framework governing child adoption, which has led to potential exploitation and human trafficking.
Commissioner Bonface Massa, Chairperson of the Child Rights Thematic Committee, emphasized the need for urgent action to regulate the sector and improve child care services.
“The report identifies child care institutions in Blantyre and Lilongwe as major facilitators of adoption processes to foreign countries,” he said.
Massa urged the Ministry of Gender and Justice to expedite the process of the Child Adoption Bill in parliament.
The report’s findings have also raised concerns about inconsistencies in data collection, which may lead to underreporting of child adoption cases.
Demons Mhango, Chairperson of the NGO Coalition on Child Rights, called for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue surrounding child adoption in Malawi.
“By strengthening data collection, preventing illegal adoption, and protecting children from human trafficking, stakeholders can work together to ensure the best interests of Malawi’s children,” he said.
The acting director of social welfare at the Ministry of Gender, Enock Bonongwe, described the report as an “eye-opener” and emphasized the need for collaboration among key stakeholders to ensure the best interests of children.
“By combining resources and expertise, stakeholders can more effectively support children in need and help prevent their exploitation,” he said.
