It has been reported that Malawi has recorded 5474 cases and 173 deaths due to the coronavirus till August 27th. It is suspected that the figure might be higher in reality as less than 50,000 tests have been conducted. Schools and airports have been closed to contain the global pandemic since the government imposed a lockdown in March.

The government has decided to uplift the restriction and allowed airports and schools to function from September. Acting Director of the Department of Civil Aviation, James Chakwera, in an interview, said the government has precisely contemplated the effects of the interruption of air travel on all aspects of the economy. Therefore, the government has decided to restore the order from September 1st, 2020.

James Chakwera further stated that the main international airport in the capital Lilongwe would initially be open for limited flights only. Simultaneously, all the arrivals will strictly be asked to show the Coved-19 negative tests conducted within ten days before arrival.

More than 5 million pupils across all the grades are left out of class due to schools’ closure. Education Minister Agnes Nyalonje said they have decided to start with examination classes as a phased approach from September 7th; further steps will be taken by October.