LILONGWE, MALAWI – In a high-level meeting aimed at addressing the rising tide of violence against Persons with Albinism (PWAs), the National Executive Council of the Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) met earlier today, January 23, 2026, with the Inspector General of the Malawi Police Services, Mr. Richard Luhanga.
The delegation, led by APAM President, Mr. Young Muhamba, sought urgent intervention following a disturbing resurgence of physical attacks and the exhumation of graves belonging to persons with albinism across the country.
Updates on Recent Crimes
During the meeting, APAM officials expressed deep concern over the safety of their members, noting that the desecration of graves has struck fear into many communities.
Inspector General, Luhanga briefed the council on the progress of several high-profile investigations, including recent grave exhumations reported in the Dowa and Kasungu districts.
The police also provided an update on the search for Israel Mbewe, a person with albinism who has been missing since November 2025. While the details of the ongoing investigations remain sensitive, the Inspector General assured the association that the police are working tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Strategic Resolutions for Enhanced Security
The meeting concluded with a series of critical resolutions designed to create a more robust security framework for PWAs in Malawi:
1. Continuous Communication: The Police and APAM agreed to a formal mechanism for the continuous sharing of investigation updates to ensure transparency and maintain trust.
2. Community Engagement: Recognising that security begins at the local level, both parties emphasised the need to engage traditional Chiefs through the Ministry of Local Government. This initiative will involve direct dialogue with families and persons with albinism to identify localised threats.
3. Protection of Graves: Specific strategies were discussed to enhance the protection of burial sites, which have become targets for criminal syndicates.
4. Surveillance and Awareness: The meeting resolved to strengthen community surveillance and launch intensified awareness campaigns to educate the public on the “evil acts” being perpetrated and to encourage the reporting of suspicious activities.
A United Front
Mr. Young Muhamba praised the police for their willingness to collaborate but stressed that the resurgence of these crimes requires immediate and decisive action.
“The safety of our members is a fundamental right. We must work together to root out the criminals who profit from these horrific acts,” he stated.
Inspector General, Richard Luhanga reaffirmed the commitment of the Malawi Police Services to protecting all citizens, emphasising that crimes against persons with albinism are a priority for the service.
As Malawi grapples with these renewed threats, the partnership between APAM and the national police represents a vital step toward ensuring that persons with albinism can live without fear of being targeted for their condition.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com/APAM
