By Franco Mwachande Jnr
Plan International Malawi has called for collaboration in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in Lilongwe District.
Plan International Malawi Project Officer for Maria Chavula emphasized the importance of young people understanding their role in combating GBV and working with stakeholders who can support their efforts.
This was said in the area of Traditional Authority (T/A) Njewa’s area, where Plan International Malawi, through its Youth Advisory Panel platform, organized a panel discussion on GBV awareness with various stakeholders.
She encouraged the youth to actively participate in the fight against GBV to create a greater impact, particularly as the country observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
“There is a need for various stakeholders to collaborate in disseminating sexual and reproductive health information to empower girls. During this campaign, we also urged young people to prioritize education and access family planning services as a way to combat GBV,” said Chavula.
Senior Group Village Head Mphaza, expressed concern over the rising cases of GBV in the area. He revealed that he had sought help from Gule Wamkulu to escort girls to school and ensure they are not mistreated by their parents.
Meanwhile, Cosmas Chisale, Chairperson of the Njewa Youth Network, commended Plan International Malawi for its efforts, saying the initiative would significantly empower young people to take a stand against GBV.
Chisale criticized some parents for neglecting their children, which he said exposes them to sexual abuse.
“When parents fail to provide basic needs and school fees for their children, some men take advantage of the situation to abuse them,” he said.
This year’s theme for the 16 Days of Activism is “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls in Malawi: Towards Beijing +30.