The 2026 Poppy Week was launched in Lilongwe City, Malawi, at the Office of the President and Cabinet, with Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi purchasing the first poppy ribbon for K10 million. The event was held on behalf of President Peter Mutharika. Saidi called for Malawians and the corporate sector to contribute towards improving the welfare of former soldiers. Poppy Week provides an opportunity for Malawians to reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers who risked their lives in defence of the country.
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 proposed Act could establish a comprehensive legal framework to address longstanding concerns. 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.
The funds collected during Poppy Week will help the organisation meet the needs of veterans, widows, and children who depend on support from the veterans' welfare programme. The needs of veterans extend beyond housing, with additional resources required to improve their living conditions and provide essential services. 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.
The Malawi Defence Force (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. Saidi said serving and retired members of the MDF deserved recognition for their contribution to national security.
Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi said that when it comes to constitutionalism and institutionalism, there is no better role model in Malawi's governance framework than the MDF. He emphasised the importance of supporting those who have served the country. The launch of Poppy Week is an annual event that aims to raise awareness and funds for the welfare of war veterans.
The MDF has played a crucial role in maintaining national security, and its members have made significant sacrifices in the line of duty. The Poppy Week campaign will help to improve the living conditions of veterans and provide them with essential services. The government and the corporate sector are urged to contribute towards the welfare of former soldiers.
The 2026 Poppy Week campaign has been launched with a target of raising funds to support the welfare of war veterans. The campaign will focus on improving the living conditions of veterans, providing essential services, and supporting the rehabilitation of houses at the Zomba War Memorial Home. Key stakeholders, including the government and the corporate sector, are expected to contribute to the campaign.
Key points
- The Malawi government has been urged to enact a Veterans Act to provide a legal framework for protecting the welfare of retired soldiers, their widows, and dependents.
- The 2026 Poppy Week aims to raise K500 million to support the rehabilitation of houses at the Zomba War Memorial Home and improve the welfare of retired soldiers.
- The Malawi Defence Force has played a crucial role in maintaining national security, and its members have made significant sacrifices in the line of duty.
