Africa-Press. Norway has decided to close its embassy in Malawi by July 2027.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated that the country is facing “the most serious security policy situation since World War II.”
He added, according to a statement from the government, “In a world characterized by increasing uncertainty and rapid change, we must adapt the foreign service to protect Norwegian interests in the best possible way.”
These changes are part of a broader review of the Norwegian foreign service.
The Norwegian embassy in Lilongwe was established in 2000, and the value of Norwegian aid provided to Malawi in recent years has been around 500 million Norwegian kroner annually.
Priority areas for development cooperation include health, education, agriculture, and good governance.
International Development Minister Åsmund Aukrust stated, “We will continue to contribute to development for the benefit of the people of Malawi after the embassy closes.”
Aid will continue to be provided through multilateral organizations, and focusing efforts through fewer channels will help reduce the fragmentation of Norwegian aid, according to Aukrust.
In the coming period, the minister noted that Norway will assess the scope of its cooperation with civil society organizations, institutions, and other partners in Lilongwe.
Citizens seeking Norwegian support may face uncertainty as the country prepares to close its embassy in Lilongwe.
The planned closure is expected to take effect by the end of July 2027, although Norwegian development cooperation with Lilongwe may continue through other arrangements.
