Southern African Trade and Connectivity Project (Malawi)
In a landmark event today, the Malawi government officially launched the Migration and Data Analysis System (MIDAS), a cutting-edge border management tool developed in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with funding from World Bank under the Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project. The system aims to revolutionize the country’s approach to border security, migration control, and data-driven policymaking. At the same event, the project also donated two brandnew vehicles to the Immigration Department.
Launching the system, the Minister of Homeland Security, Ezekiel Ching’oma, emphasized the significance of MIDAS as a critical step towards modernizing Malawi’s borders. Highlighting the government’s commitment to leveraging information and communication technologies to foster a digital economy, the Minister praised President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera’s administration for prioritizing progressive migration policies.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward efficient and secure border management,” the Minister stated. “MIDAS will enhance our capacity to monitor cross-border movement, curb irregular migration, and combat organized transnational crimes with real-time data analysis and interconnected systems.” Developed by IOM, the MIDAS system is designed to collect, process, and analyze traveller information across Malawi’s entire border network. The system’s capabilities include risk assessment and data-driven policy formulation, strengthening national security while facilitating legitimate trade and human movement.
“With a shared vision and collective effort, we can ensure that Malawi’s border management systems remain resilient, secure, and aligned with global standards, turning migration into a powerful driver of development toward the goals of Malawi 2063,” stated her Excellency Nomagugu Ncube, IOM Chief of Missions, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to continued innovation and collaboration in border security.
The Malawi government’s focus on robust border management is driven by challenges such as labor exploitation, human trafficking, and organized crime, common across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Malawi’s proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to secure, efficient, and humane border control policies aligned with global standards.
Taking his turn, Mr. Macloid Anam’chuma Kalindang’oma, Acting Director General of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services thanked the World Bank for funding the project. “Their support came at the right time, as we recognized that the absence of effective border management systems posed significant challenges to delivering efficient services. Their partnership exemplifies unwavering commitment, and I encourage everyone to join me in giving a big round of applause to the World Bank for their invaluable support,” he said.
John Bosco Phiri, Director of Planning in the Ministry of Transport observed that implementing MIDAS is not just about technology; it is about smart governance and regional integration. It enhances Malawi’s capacity to improve border security and border control management, facilitate faster, safer, and more transparent border crossing procedures, promote regional trade through streamlined processes and reinforce our national security infrastructure.
“The launch of MIDAS reflects our Government’s commitment to leveraging innovative technology for our nation’s development. It is a vital step toward a more secure, efficient, and prosperous Malawi—one that actively participates in regional trade, safeguards its borders, and responds effectively to the dynamic challenges of migration and security,” he said. As Malawi embarks on this new chapter, officials believe MIDAS will provide valuable insights into migration trends, supporting evidence-based policymaking and fostering socio-economic growth. The MIDAS system for Immigration department is funded by world Bank to the tune of 5.4 million USD
