The governments of Malawi and Tanzania on Wednesday signed two agreements, including one on prisoner exchange.
The two countries signed the agreements during a Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPCC) meeting held in Lilongwe.
In addition to the Transfer of Sentenced Persons agreement, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on health cooperation to facilitate bilateral cooperation in disease surveillance, control and management and all other matters of mutual interest in the sector.
The agreements are expected to bolster collaborative efforts in critical areas, fostering a spirit of mutual benefit and shared responsibility.
The two governments also discussed the possibility of citizens of the two countries using their national identity cards when crossing the border into the other country.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo said the agreements underscored commitment to enhancing cooperation between the two countries.
“This session marks another important chapter in the ongoing dialogue between Malawi and Tanzania, reinforcing a shared vision for regional stability and growth,” Tembo said.
She added that the MoU for the exchange of prisoners between the two countries was a “milestone” for both countries.
Tembo also urged officials to follow through on the commitments and dedications made with other countries to ensure meaningful results.
On his part, Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo said Tanzania and Malawi hold a strong bilateral foundation in various sectors; hence, Tanzania plans to extend more of its services and strategic programmes to Malawi.
“We have discussed diplomatic corridors and the use of national identity cards to enable cross-border trade between our [small and medium enterprises] and quite a few that are doable now.
“But what is important is that we are all committed to ensuring that we address the challenges that exist between us,” Kombo said.
He has since called on their respective officials to accelerate the implementation of the decisions reached during the session, saying timely action was essential for the success of the initiatives agreed upon.
The JPCC meetings between Malawi and Tanzania provide the two countries with an opportunity to solidify their relationship and form collaborations in various sectors.
A mid-term review of the JPCC session is scheduled for February 2026 and the next full session of the Malawi- Tanzania JPCC is set to be held in February 2027 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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