Thank you Israel

Over the weekend, a group of Malawian youths embarked on a journey to Israel as part of a labour export initiative, a commitment made by the Tonse Alliance government to foster job creation and empower the nation’s youth.

Despite the government’s positive intentions, opposition parties, notably led by Kondwani Nankhumwa, have raised concerns, suggesting that these young people might be deployed to participate in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Israel has a long history of hosting foreign workers to address its labour shortages, especially in the agricultural sector. The country’s demand for labour has led to agreements with various nations, facilitating the legal employment of foreign workers in Israel.

These workers are typically engaged in tasks such as agriculture, construction and caregiving. Therefore, the notion that Malawian youths are being sent to Israel to participate in the conflict is not only baseless but also lacks credibility.

Media reports indicate that in addition to Malawi, the Indian Government has deployed its citizens to work in the construction and caregiving industries in Israel.

The assertion made by the Leader of the Opposition, Kondwani Nankhumwa, suggesting that Malawian youths may be deployed to fight in the Israel and Hamas war is unfounded and appears to be a result of misinformation.
The labour export initiative is aimed at providing employment opportunities for Malawian youths and strengthening economic ties between the two nations, not engaging in military conflicts. Malawians should be pleased that countries like Israel are offering such opportunities to empower the youth.
Firstly, Malawi stands to benefit from the labour export programme because as it is not a secret, unemployment and underemployment rate is very high in the country and this initiative offers employment opportunities for the country’s youth, contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth.

Secondly, remittances sent back home by these workers will positively impact their families and communities. Additionally, the experience gained by the youths working in Israel can be valuable for skills and expertise development, applicable upon their return to Malawi.

The exchange of knowledge and expertise has the potential to contribute to the growth of key sectors in the country, especially amid the government’s promotion of agricultural mechanisation and commercialisation through the Mega Farms initiative.

It is crucial to dispel the unfounded suggestion that Malawian youths sent to Israel for labor are involved in the Israel and Hamas conflict. The initiative is a well-intentioned effort by the Tonse Alliance government to address unemployment and empower the youth.

The high demand among the youth to be included in the travel list reflects the positive reception and support for this labor export initiative among well-meaning Malawians. Importantly, participation in the programme is voluntary and individuals are not compelled to join.

However, the safety of the youth in Israel is of utmost importance given the ongoing conflict in Jerusalem. Secretary for Labour Wezi Kayira emphasised the government’s commitment to the safety of the team, stating that they will work at certified locations classified as “fit and safe” environments.

We extend best wishes to all the youth embarking on this new chapter in Israel. Given the lucrative opportunities presented by this programme, I would have eagerly joined the queue if I were eligible.

Unfortunately, I am now overaged to participate.