Malawi First has strongly opposed a proposed government-to-government arrangement to deploy 500 Malawian nurses to Israel, arguing that the move could further strain the country’s already understaffed health system.
In a statement dated August 18, 2026, the organisation says it is concerned with remarks by Malawi’s former Chargé d’Affaires to Israel, David Bisnowaty, regarding plans to send the nurses to Israel under a Government-to-Government (GtoG) arrangement.
Malawi First leader, Bon Kalindo, says while it recognises the right of health professionals to seek employment opportunities abroad, the government should not facilitate the export of critical health workers while local hospitals continue to face shortages.
Kalindo cites the World Health Organisation’s Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel, which discourages active recruitment of health workers from countries facing critical shortages.
Malawi First has also questioned Bisnowaty’s credibility to speak on public welfare, citing what it describes as unresolved concerns surrounding his integrity.
These include allegations linked to a 2015/16 X-ray machines tender at the Ministry of Health, an outstanding MK7.5 billion government payment following a Supreme Court of Appeal order, and concerns surrounding his diplomatic service in Israel.
Bisnowaty was yet to comment on the issues.
However, the organisation says such matters raise concerns about accountability, contract management and the use of public funds.
Malawi First is calling on the Ministries of Health and Foreign Affairs to clarify government policy on the export of health workers, abandon any GtoG arrangement that violates WHO guidance, and prioritise the retention, training and improved working conditions of health workers in Malawi.
It has also urged government to expedite the deployment of replacements for recalled diplomats to ensure Malawi’s diplomatic missions are fully staffed.
The organisation further calls on President Arthur Peter Mutharika to consider appointing indigenous Malawians to diplomatic positions, arguing that local talent should be trusted to advance Malawi’s interests abroad.
