As the situation stabilizes, authorities from both Mozambique and Malawi are now working on a plan for the voluntary return of those who fled due to the violence.
Factors Behind the Violence
The election saw Daniel Chapo from the ruling Frelimo party succeed outgoing President Filipe Nyusi, who was ineligible to run again following the completion of his two constitutional terms.
Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane alleged electoral fraud, sparking widespread protests across the nation.
Impact on the Malawian Community
Most of the refugees have sought shelter in Malawi’s Nsanje district, bringing with them limited possessions and facing challenges such as food and medicine shortages.
Malawi, already hosting over 50,000 refugees from other parts of Africa and classified as one of the world’s poorest countries by the World Bank, is also facing agricultural hardships due to El Niño.
Indexing the Repatriation Process
Moses Mukandawire, director of the Nyika Institute, points out Malawi’s previous experience with Mozambican refugees during the Mozambican civil war.
Although the repatriation is voluntary, concerns remain over the safety and livelihoods of the returning refugees, some who have faced property loss and personal tragedies in Mozambique.
Averting Economic Deterioration
Economist Teresa Boene underscores the urgent need for economic recovery and a favorable business climate in Mozambique, which has suffered significant damage from the election-related unrest, including loss of business and infrastructure.
Keith Walker edited this article.
