Authorities have emphasized the need for refugees and asylum seekers in Malawi to follow laid down procedures when obtaining convention travel documents to enhance their security and wellbeing.

Speaking during an interface meeting with the refugees at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa on Tuesday, Senior Administrative and Operations Manager in the Department of Refugee Affairs, Hilda Katema, observed that majority of the refugees are using short cuts to acquire documents.

Katema said this compromises their security. She went on to outline the criteria for obtaining these documents, which are available to refugees needing medical treatment abroad, attending legal matters, pursuing education, and other valid reasons.

Katema in a black hat presenting a booklet to UNHCR officials

She added that refugees need to submit a detailed, signed request to the authorities, including an exit letter from the camp manager, proof of refugee status, two passport photos, police clearance, and supporting documents from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

In his remarks, Coordinator for Immigration at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Prince Matope, dwelt much on their role as being to verify the applicant’s refugee status in the database.

Matope stated that when verified, the process takes up to 10 working days after a payment of K70,000.

But he was quick to point out that applications can be rejected on security grounds.

Officer-in-Charge for Dowa Police Station, Almakio Daka, who is Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), emphasized the importance of using the document correctly, warning that misuse would not be tolerated.

He also highlighted the police’s role in ensuring the security of the refugees and the integrity of the travel documents.

Daka said regular checks and monitoring will be conducted to prevent any fraudulent activities.

Currently, 2, 000 booklets are available for 55,000 refugees.