AAEA Peer Learning Mission to Malawi 2025

During the first half of September 2025, the Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA) conducted a Peer Learning Mission to Malawi, in the context of the country’s preparations for its general elections scheduled for 16 September 2025. The mission aimed to facilitate knowledge exchange, peer collaboration, and capacity strengthening among African Election Management Bodies (EMBs).

The delegation brought together senior representatives from the electoral commissions of Ghana, Liberia, Lesotho, Botswana, Zambia, Senegal, Mozambique, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Nigeria, accompanied by technical experts from the European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES). Hosted by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) under the leadership of Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, participants engaged with national stakeholders to discuss approaches to ensure credible, transparent, and peaceful elections.

The programme included thematic sessions and field visits focusing on election planning and operations, voter registration, technology in elections, civic and voter education, conflict prevention, and inclusive participation. These exchanges provided valuable opportunities to share experiences, identify practical lessons, and enhance cooperation among EMBs.

The mission coincided with the launch of the Malawi Election Situation Room (ESR) on 12 September 2025 in Lilongwe, under the theme “Safeguarding Our Democracy: Promoting Credible, Peaceful, and Inclusive Elections in Malawi.” The launch gathered representatives from the United Nations, the European Union, the African Union, civil society organisations, and the diplomatic community, reaffirming a shared commitment to electoral transparency and public confidence.

This peer learning initiative was carried out under the framework of the “Pro-Electoral Integrity: Project in Support to Electoral Integrity in Africa”, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA) and implemented through the African Union Commission’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (AUC-PAPS).

The AAEA Peer Learning Mission to Malawi provided a meaningful platform for peer-to-peer exchange, fostering cooperation and mutual learning among election practitioners from across the continent. Insights and recommendations gathered during the mission will be compiled into a final report to support future collaboration and the continued improvement of electoral processes in Africa.