The Malawi passport remains one of the most influential and powerfully ranked passports in Africa, according to a 2024 Passport Index list released on Wednesday.

The 2024 first quarter passport ranking by Henley Passport Index, a global immigration consultancy firm based in London, ranks the Malawi passport on 8th position in Africa and 67th globally, tying with the Kenyan passport.

This means that holders of a Malawi passport are guaranteed a visa-free access to 76 countries based on the prevailing visa arrangements; a development that ushers significant financial freedoms to holders of the Malawi passport in terms of international investments and business opportunities.

Spokesperson for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services national Wellington Chiponde said the benefits of having a powerful passport include: ease of travel across borders, unlocking doors of economic opportunities, strengthened diplomatic ties and promotion of a travelling culture that empowers citizens and attracts global talents.