Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel made a lightning 24-hour visit to Malawi on Monday and signed a bilateral agreement to bring in laborers from the southeast African country in the latest Israeli diplomatic outreach to the continent.
The moves come amid a diplomatic tug-of-war in Africa between supporters and opponents of the Jewish state, such as South Africa, which has emerged as one of the fiercest critics of the Jewish state worldwide, against other African countries like Malawi, which back Israel due to their Christian faith.
“Malawi is a true friend of Israel, and our relationship is built on shared goals and values,” Haskel told JNS on Wednesday. “At a time when many other countries have turned their back on us, Malawi has stood with us both at the U.N. and with steadfast vocal public support.”
The bilateral accord reached between the governments will facilitate the employment of Malawi workers in Israel in sectors such as agriculture and caregiving, which have needed employees since the Hamas-led terrorist attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
Since the massacre of 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 251 others, Israel has barred Palestinian workers from entering Israel amid security concerns.
‘Strongest ally of Israel in Africa’
Haskel met with the top brass of Malawi’s government, including President Lazarus Chakwera and Foreign Minister Nancy Tembo.
Malawi opened an embassy in Israel last year at the height of the war against Hamas in Gaza, underlining its support for Israel.
“Malawi has emerged as the strongest ally of Israel in Africa, and the continent is watching to see this relationship bloom into tangible results and prosperity for all,” said Dennis Nethumbi, Africa director of the Washington D.C.-based Israel Allies Foundation, which focuses on faith-based diplomacy. “The agreement sets Malawi on the path of the Abrahamic blessing.”
Earlier this year, Israel’s deputy foreign minister traveled to Ghana to meet with newly elected President John Mahama, underscoring the growing partnership between the Jewish state and African countries.
Last year, Israel thwarted an effort by South Africa and Algeria to deprive it of observer status in the African Union, with the help of African allies such as Ghana.
