pio@mdf.gov.mw

+265 992674140

About Us

What We Are

The Malawi Defence Force (MDF) is the only military force constituted in Malawi. It comprises Malawi Army (Land Forces), Malawi Air Force (MAF), Malawi Maritime Force (MMF) and Malawi National Service (MNS). Section 159 of the Republican Constitution mandates the formation of MDF and the Defence Force Act of 2024 stipulates its composition. The President of the Republic of Malawi is the Commander-in-Chief and has the ultimate responsibility of the Defence Force. However, any power conferred on the President shall only be exercised on the recommendation of the Defence Council which is constituted under an Act of Parliament and includes the Minister responsible for Defence and the High Command of the Defence Forces of Malawi. The Defence Force Commander is the highest-ranking military officer based at the Joint Headquarters. He is the Principal Military Advisor to the Commander-in-Chief.

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Vision

To be an appropriately sized, highly trained and suitably equipped Defence Force which will perform its tasks of upholding the constitution in a unique, resourceful & conventional manner.

Mission Statement

To conduct military operations in defence of the constitution, territorial integrity and sovereignty of Malawi and its national interests.

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Values

MDF upholds & is established on a foundation of:

  • High standard of discipline
  • Military professionalism
  • Apolitical
  • Mission oriented command
  • Patriotism
  • Good leadership
  • Accountability
  • Religious ethics
  • Initiative

Roles

  • Uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic and guard against threats to the safety of its citizens by force of arms.
  • Uphold and protect the constitutional order in the Republic and assist the civil authorities in the proper exercise of their functions under this constitution.
  • Provide technical expertise and resources to assist the civilian authorities in the maintenance of essential services, in times of emergency; and
  • Perform such other duties outside the territory of Malawi as may be required of them by any treaty entered into by Malawi in accordance with the prescriptions of international law.
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