Malawians are in a jovial mood, a day after the announcement by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services of the resumption of passport printing services.
News of the reduction in ordinary passport fees from K90,000 to K50,000 has been met with enthusiasm, as evidenced during a phone-in programme “The Pot” which is aired on MBC.
Simon Yona from Mangunda in Thyolo District said he had been eagerly awaiting his passport so that he could embark on a business trip to South Africa.
Similarly, Eliya Luhanga from Mchengautuwa township welcomed the fee reduction, noting that the saved amount of K40,000 would help cover his transportation costs to South Africa.
Tedson Likhanya from Nsanje commended the Immigration Department for restoring the system within the deadline set by President Dr Lazarus Chakwera.
Likhanya also highlighted the involvement of local experts in resolving the issue, demonstrating Malawians’ capability to overcome challenges.
President Chakwera ordered the Immigration department to put its house in order during his appearance in Parliament, where he addressed concerns raised by legislators.
The passport printing system had collapsed due to alleged hacking and the hackers were demanding ransom from the government.
Reported by Timothy Kateta