The Malawi government has expressed concern over reports that the United States may scale back consular and visa services in several African countries, a move that could make it more difficult for Malawians to obtain visas and travel to the United States.
George Chaponda, minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation raised the issue during a reception commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence and 62 years of diplomatic relations between Malawi and the United States.
Chaponda said the government is worried by reports suggesting that the U.S. government is considering closing embassies and consulates that process visa applications in a number of African countries, including Malawi.
According to reports by the Associated Press and Euronews, the U.S. State Department is considering reducing the number of embassies and consulates in Africa from 50 to 20 as part of a broader restructuring effort.
Chaponda warned that any reduction in consular services would place a significant burden on Malawians seeking to travel to the United States for education, business and medical treatment.
“The visa entry arrangements are detrimental to Malawians seeking medical care and students pursuing academic opportunities, among other categories,” he said.
While acknowledging the long-standing partnership between Malawi and the United States, Chaponda said there was a need for frank and constructive dialogue on issues affecting bilateral relations.
“We appreciate the contributions the United States has made to Malawi, but an open and honest dialogue on these issues is very necessary, even when the discussions are uncomfortable,” he said.
Chaponda also appealed to the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider some of its recently introduced policies.
The minister acknowledged that previous weaknesses in the management of travel and diplomatic documentation may have contributed to stricter U.S. measures.
“Some of the punitive measures we are getting are because of the way things were being done at that time. Malawians would travel to America on visas and fail to return. We are correcting those issues,” Chaponda said.
He cited reforms undertaken by the government, including tighter controls over the issuance of diplomatic passports and a reduction in staffing levels at diplomatic missions abroad.
“In the past, for instance, Washington would have about 29 officers. We have addressed that. The issue of diplomatic passports is now under control and has been brought fully under the ministry,” he said.
Chaponda also expressed concern over reductions in funding through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, saying the cuts have affected some operations at Dzaleka Refugee Camp.
He said Malawi is now taking a more strategic approach to trade, investment and international partnerships, focusing on mutually beneficial relationships that support national development.
Officials from the U.S. Embassy in Malawi did not comment on the matter during the event.
The remarks came as Malawi and the United States celebrated more than six decades of diplomatic relations, amid growing concerns about changes to U.S. foreign policy and their potential impact on African countries.
