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Malawi’s Immigration System Under Siege: The Cyberattack that Shook the Nation

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Malawi’s Immigration System Under Siege: The Cyberattack that Shook the Nation

By Twink Jones Gadama

In a shocking turn of events, the Department of Immigration in Malawi has found itself at the center of a major cyberattack, leaving the country’s passport system paralyzed and thousands of citizens stranded without essential travel documents. The attack, which was discovered on January 19th, 2024, has raised serious concerns about the security of Malawi’s digital infrastructure and the government’s ability to protect sensitive information.

Brigadier Charles Kalumo, the Director General of Immigration, revealed during a press briefing that the department had received notification of a system failure that disrupted the production of passports, e-visas, and permits. According to Kalumo, the immigration department was quick to conclude that they were under attack, leading to a frantic race to identify the source of the breach and restore the system to full functionality.

Zikhale at the Press Briefing

The severity of the situation prompted Steve Kayuni, the Principal Secretary of Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Homeland Security, to establish a committee tasked with investigating the cyberattack and ensuring compliance with President Chakwera’s directive to restore the passport system within three weeks. With the clock ticking, officials from the Ministry of Homeland Security have been working tirelessly to provide updates on the progress of the investigation and the efforts to bring the system back online.

Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, a cybersecurity expert, weighed in on the situation, attributing the system disruption to cybercrimes and urging Malawians to remain patient as the government works to recover the compromised information. Ng’oma’s insights shed light on the growing threat of cyberattacks in the digital age and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data.

Amidst the chaos, Brigadier Charles Kalumo took the opportunity to address rumors surrounding the government’s relationship with Techno Brain, the company responsible for the passport system. Kalumo clarified that the Malawian government had fully compensated Techno Brain in 2023 for the system and stressed that the government retained full control over the system, refuting claims suggesting otherwise.

One of the most chilling revelations from Kalumo’s briefing was the presence of a message within the system demanding a ransom of approximately 2 billion kwacha. “We have your system and we demand a ransom of around 2 billion kwacha,” Kalumo revealed, sending shockwaves through the nation as citizens grappled with the implications of such a brazen act of cybercrime.

As Malawi grapples with the fallout from this unprecedented cyberattack, questions loom about the government’s preparedness to handle future threats to its digital infrastructure. The resilience of Malawi’s immigration system is being put to the test, with the fate of thousands of citizens hanging in the balance. Will the committee tasked with investigating the cyberattack be able to identify the perpetrators and restore the system to full functionality within the three-week deadline? Only time will tell as Malawi navigates the turbulent waters of cybersecurity in the modern age.

Weather Shocks and Social Safety Nets: Managing Disaster in Malawi

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Weather Shocks and Social Safety Nets: Managing Disaster in Malawi

By Twink Jones Gadama

In the face of increasing weather shocks such as droughts, irregular rains, and floods, households in Malawi are finding solace in social safety net programs like the social cash transfer and public works initiatives. A recent study by the Mwapata Institute, supported by the Irish Embassy, has shed light on the vital role these programs play in supporting vulnerable households affected by various forms of disasters.

The study, conducted between 2010 and 2020, delved into the intricate relationship between patterns of social safety nets, weather shocks, and household food security in Malawi. What emerged was a clear picture of how these safety nets serve as a crucial lifeline for communities grappling with the impacts of unpredictable weather patterns.

One of the key findings of the study was that, despite the challenges posed by weather shocks, households receiving support through social safety net programs were better equipped to cope with the adverse effects. Whether it was through social cash transfers or other external assistance, these programs served as a buffer against the devastating consequences of natural disasters.

However, the study also highlighted some gaps in the existing early warning systems. Limited resources, equipment losses due to floods, and poor coordination among organizations were identified as key challenges hindering the effectiveness of early warning messages. This underscores the urgent need for improved coordination, increased resources, and better infrastructure to enhance the early warning systems in place.

Professor Levinson Chiwaula, the Research Director at Mwapata Institute, emphasized the importance of increasing funds allocated to beneficiaries of social cash transfer programs. With the government recently raising the monthly allowance from K9,000 to K19,000 per beneficiary, there is hope for a more substantial impact on the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.

In addition to increased financial support, there is a call for better provision of early warning messages to communities. By ensuring that households are well-informed and prepared for impending disasters, the likelihood of mitigating the effects of weather shocks is significantly increased.

With climate change continuing to pose a threat to agricultural production and food security in Malawi, the importance of social safety nets cannot be overstated. These programs not only provide immediate relief to affected households but also serve as a long-term investment in building resilience and sustainability within communities.

The Mwapata Institute’s study serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, donors, and stakeholders to prioritize the strengthening of social safety nets and early warning systems. By allocating more resources, improving coordination, and enhancing outreach efforts, Malawi can better prepare itself for the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.

As we navigate an increasingly uncertain future, the lessons learned from this study remind us of the invaluable role that social safety nets play in safeguarding the welfare of communities in the face of adversity. It is through these programs that hope is nurtured, resilience is built, and disaster management becomes a collective responsibility for all.

In conclusion, the study’s findings provide a roadmap for a more resilient and secure future for Malawi, one where weather shocks are met with preparedness, support, and solidarity. By embracing the lessons learned and taking proactive steps to strengthen social safety nets, we can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, even in the face of uncertainty.

Analyzing the rising trend of political violence

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Analyzing the rising trend of political violence

By Burnett Munthali

Thugs armed with axes, stones, panga knives, sticks and catapults wore masks in and disguised themselves damaged cars, injured people and scattered Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) members who gathered on Saturday 24 February, 2024 at Mbowe filling Station in Lilongwe. Many victims were attacked and some women were raped at Mbowe filling station on Saturday 24 February 2024. It is alleged the thugs  are from the Malawi Congress Party

Late at night on Saturday, one of the victims in the Mbowe attack made a call at around 20:00 hours and spoke to this reporter that his car had been smashed and his mobile phone was stolen in the process by MCP thugs.

He explained in a WhatsApp call that he got badly beaten up, injured and was rushed to hospital for medication but is now recovering. The major concern is that other DPP members got seriously injured and were hospitalized.

Giving highlights on the attack, some MCP cabinet ministers were reportedly involved in planning all this scenario against the DPP.

He said the MCP attackers camped at Civo Stadium where they were waiting for the right time to attack. When the crowd of MCP thugs came out for the attack, Redson Munlo, was spotted among MCP thugs attacking DPP members at Mbowe filling station with axes, panga knives, catapults, rocks and sticks.

Another participant in the Mbowe filling station political attack. He lives in Mchesi


Surprisingly no arrests have been made to this moment.

Following this incident, an underground cover investigation by this reporter was launched, and we have been reliably informed that two Malawi Congress Party (MCP) cabinet ministers (names withheld) were in the habit of involving young men from Mchesi and Area 36 to disrupt protests and opposition.

Our investigation done on Sunday 25 February 2024 reveals that one of the DPP members who lives in Mchesi was among the hacked people by MCP thugs but was at his home as an out patient and recovering.

Another information sourced within Mchesi indicates that one of the MCP attackers ended up getting seriously injured in the fracas. MCP top officials are reported to have taken the injured to Dyaeng Luke Private clinic for medical attention so that the DPP should not know his whereabouts
as they would easily spot him at Kamuzu Central Hospital or any nearby clinic and take revenge.

While in Mchesi, a friend confused to this reporter that the young man whose picture is circulating in social media and took part in the attack against the DPP is actually a resident of Mchesi. His residence was accurately located (location withheld) to this reporter and authorities have been contacted for his possible arrest.

According to the ongoing investigations regarding the political attack at Mbowe filling station, it has been reported that Minister Richard Chimwendo Banda is involved into this whole thing.

One of the eye witnesses who lives in Area 9 says, Hon Richard Chimwendo Banda was spotted at Civo Stadium paying money to some youth who later went to attack DPP members at Mbowe filling station on Saturday 24 February 2024. It is argued that although Chimwendo has threatened to sue some DPP officials for defamation, he is surely the masterminder of violence against DPP.

Flashing back in September 2023, Heavily armed police and a civilian gang foiled a street demonstration led by political activist Bon Kalindo, causing commotion in the process near Lilongwe Bridge. Kalindo and his group started their march from Lilongwe Community Centre ground en route to deliver a petition either to Lilongwe District Council or President Lazarus Chakwera’s official residence, Kamuzu Palace when they were intercepted at Lilongwe Bridge by police and another group that emerged from the opposite direction.

The other group was seen passing through a human wall of armed police and started pelting Kalindo’s group, who were equally under police escort, with stones. In the ensuing commotion, police fired teargas, prompting the protesters to scamper in different directions. Police who were escorting Kalindo’s team, retaliated by firing tear gas at the opposing group of about 100, but were ordered to stop by their colleagues from the opposite side. All this chaos too was organised by Malawi Congress Party.

More revelations to follow.

Zikhale Ng’oma says passport issuing system hackers demands K2 billion to surrender the system

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Zikhale Ng’oma says passport issuing system hackers demands K2 billion to surrender the system

By Chisomo Phiri

Minister of Homeland Security Ken Zikhale Ng’oma says people suspected to have hacked the Passport Issuing System at the Department of Immigration and Citizen Services are reportedly demanding about K2 billion to surrender the system.

Ng’oma disclosed this at a media briefing on Tuesday in Lilongwe but insisted that government will not pay the ransom as they are already working on the problem.

Zikhale


He argued that this is not ‘unusual’ as it happens everywhere, including in banks.

“People hack bank systems. Zachitikapo maiko ena, sizachilendo izi. Tiyesetsa within three weeks kuti tichite recover system ya passport,” said Ng’oma.

The minister further asked the public to be patient while the ministry through the department is currently carrying out investigations to find out what transpired with the  system hacking.

“We have engaged into serious investigations which are underway and currently we ask for patience from the public,” he said.

Zikhale also disclosed that soon, the ministry through the Immigration Department will release a report with detailed information.

On his part, Director general for Immigration, Brigadier General Charles Kalumo (retired ) said that there is need for unity and peace as the investigations are underway.

“This attack is not an individual attack, it is directed to the people of Malawi that is why we need to unite and cooperate as we look for those who were involved,” he said

Kalumo assured the public that the system will be restored within the president’s directed timeline as the 90 percent of it has been already restored.

The passport production challenges began in 2021 after the government terminated its contract with Techno Brain for alleged poor handling of the contract by the previous administration.

Pay back your loans to the lending institutions-Chakwera

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Pay back your loans to the lending institutions-Chakwera

By Chisomo Phiri

President Lazarus Chakwera has urged businesspersons in the country to always pay back loans they borrow from lending institutions to boost up their businesses.

He was speaking this at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe on Tuesday during an interactive meeting with business operators from the capital city.

Chakwera

The President said he wanted to meet the Lilongwe City business operators so that they can discuss issues affecting them on the marketplace.

“I am delighted today that vendors have voiced out problems they are facing day by day when doing business. You know the country has been facing financial challenges since Covid-19 but my government is still working so hard to make sure that we are better again as a country. For that matter, I want to assure you that I will support you in the businesses.

“Your concern on tax, I will put that into consideration so that you are able to make profits from the products you buy from outside the country. It is sad that vendors cannot afford to pay taxes because of the high prices they get from the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA),” he said.

Chakwera further encouraged the vendors to work together for them to help each other in boosting their businesses, telling them that “jealous will not take this country anywhere but when we are united it’s where we can see the progress.”

In his remarks, Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, thanked the President for having an audience with the vendors, saying it shows how important the President considers its citizens.

“As the Minister, I am so grateful that the president had to meet the vendors for the first time here in Lilongwe with over one thousand vendors to give them a platform to present their concerns about how their businesses are doing.

“Issues which have been raised here are very important and the president will look into them very soon,” Chimwendo Banda said.

Representative of the business operators, Hardwell Kachibekete, emphasised the issue of tax, saying that since Covid-19, businesses have been hard to operate but they are still charged with high tax from MRA when they are importing products.

“We are pleased with how the President has responded to our concerns. Our biggest challenge was taxes, so the President has said that he will handle that matter with relevant authorities,” said Kachibekete.

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