Malawi Police Target Marijuana Fields in War on Drugs

In Malawi, police are shifting their focus from intercepting smuggled marijuana to eradicating the crop at its source. Over the recent weekend, 2000kg of Indian hemp was uprooted in Kasungu district, and a farmer was arrested. Smugglers have been using creative methods, including transporting the drug in ambulances and coffins. Despite these efforts, Malawi remains a major cannabis producer, with a significant portion smuggled to South Africa. Last year, over 13,000kg was seized by police. A debate is ongoing about the economic benefits of legalizing industrial hemp, which has low psychoactive properties, versus the potential health risks of increased marijuana use. The Rastafarian community in Malawi advocates for the legalization of all cannabis varieties, citing potential revenue gains, while opponents worry about the impact on mental health.

Refugee crisis brewing on South Africa's doorstep

Malawi is facing a renewed refugee crisis as it shelters around 6,000 Mozambicans fleeing the guerrilla war reignited by Frelimo and Renamo. Civilians are suffering from abductions, rape, and violence, with government forces accused of human rights abuses. Despite Malawi's own food crisis, refugees prefer the relative peace in Malawi over the violence in Mozambique. Human Rights Watch has called for investigations into the abuses, and the UNHCR has reported a significant increase in asylum seekers. Malawi's government is hesitant to host more refugees and is advocating for their repatriation, but the refugees are reluctant to return. Renamo's leader, Alfonso Dhlakama, has threatened to seize power in six provinces, escalating tensions and violence.