War veterans have called for the enactment of a Veterans Act to provide a legal framework for protecting the welfare of retired soldiers, their widows and dependents.
The call was made during the launch of the 2026 Poppy Week at the Office of the President and Cabinet in Lilongwe City Thursday, when Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi launched the appeal on behalf of President Peter Mutharika.
Saidi, on behalf of the President, purchased the first poppy ribbon for K10 million, as organisers appealed to Malawians and the corporate sector to contribute towards improving the welfare of former soldiers.
He said Poppy Week provided an opportunity for Malawians to reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers, who risked their lives in defence of the country, and to renew their commitment to supporting those who had served.
He said serving and retired members of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) deserved recognition for their contribution to national security.
- Advertisement -
“When it comes to constitutionalism and institutionalism, there is no better role model in our governance framework than the Malawi Defence Force,” he said.
The Veterans Affairs Coordinator, Kelton Kaleke, said the organisation was targeting K500 million to support the rehabilitation of houses at the Zomba War Memorial Home and improve the welfare of retired soldiers.
He said the funds would also help the organisation meet the needs of veterans, widows and children who depend on support from the veterans’ welfare programme.
“The needs of veterans extends beyond housing, with additional resources required to improve their living conditions and provide essential services,” he said.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
The veterans further called on the government, the Ministry of Defence and the MDF to consider coming up with a group medical insurance scheme for veterans, alongside targeted assistance for those who require long-term and costly medication.
He said the proposed Veterans Act could establish a comprehensive legal framework to address these longstanding concerns.
The MDF traces its origins to the King’s African Rifles, a British colonial military formation. Following independence in 1964, the Malawi Rifles were established as the country’s military force, with the first battalion formed from the 1st Battalion of the King’s African Rifles.
