743 Illegal Firearms Destroyed in Malawi Through Humanium Metal

At the ceremony in Lilongwe, representatives from the Malawi Police gathered alongside key figures from the security sector and civil society. For the first time, central security institutions took part – a clear sign of growing commitment to reducing the circulation of illegal firearms in the country.

A total of 743 illegal firearms were destroyed, including pistols, shotguns, AK-47s, and homemade rifles. The weapons had been confiscated from poachers in national parks, armed robbers, and from families of deceased gun owners. By melting down the firearms, authorities ensure that they can never again be used to threaten, harm, or kill people.

“These weapons have taken lives – both human and animal lives, which has also affected tourism. By destroying them, we are building safer communities,” said Malawi’s Deputy Inspector General of Police, Ackis Muwanga, at the event.

Part of the African Union’s Peace Agenda

The weapons destruction in Lilongwe is part of the African Union’s peace and security agenda, which focuses on collecting and destroying illegal and obsolete weapons, as well as promoting the voluntary surrender of firearms.

For Malawi, the issue is particularly urgent, as illegal weapons are often smuggled across the country’s borders from neighboring states. This trade risks undermining Malawi’s reputation as a peaceful country and could have both social and economic consequences.

“Stopping the spread of illegal firearms is crucial for Malawi’s future. It is about both people’s safety and the country’s development,” said Edward Chaka, Director of PEFENAP.

From Scrap to Symbol of Peace

The Humanium Metal initiative, led internationally by IM, is based on melting down confiscated and illegal firearms to create a new raw material – Humanium Metal. The metal is then used in design and industrial products, with revenues reinvested into local projects that strengthen communities affected by armed violence.

Since 2016, Humanium Metal has contributed to the destruction of thousands of firearms worldwide. The weapons destruction in Lilongwe was the second to take place in Malawi with IM’s support – the first was carried out in 2023.

Towards a More Peaceful Malawi

The message from both authorities and civil society during the event was clear: the fight against illegal firearms requires cooperation. With continued investments in border control, capacity-building for the police, and active civil society engagement, the spread of weapons can be stopped.

When melted down and transformed into Humanium Metal, these weapons instead become a symbol of hope, peace, and sustainable development.

“We must all take responsibility for keeping our communities safe. Destroying these weapons is an important step, but the fight continues,” said Ackis Muwanga.

Photo: IM Southern Africa