The Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services has repatriated 50 Ethiopian nationals, including 20 minors, who had been detained at Maula Prison in Lilongwe after being identified as stranded migrants.

The group left Malawi through Kamuzu International Airport on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Immigration spokesperson Inspector Pasqually Zulu said the repatriation was carried out with financial support from the European Union and logistical assistance from the International Organization for Migration through its migrant assistance programmes.

Zulu said the exercise was one of the largest repatriations undertaken by the department this year.

He said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to facilitate the return of stranded migrants to their countries of origin while easing congestion in correctional facilities.

According to the department, repatriating stranded migrants also reduces the pressure placed on government resources when migrants remain in detention for extended periods.

Zulu said the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services will continue working with relevant authorities and development partners to identify and assist stranded migrants.

The department said future repatriations will continue to be carried out in line with applicable laws, migration policies and established procedures.