By Burnett Munthali
The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi, Madam Monica Chakwera, has arrived in Phalombe to officially launch the 2024 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Campaign. The event is taking place at the Mpasa Community Secondary School grounds in Phalombe, a symbolic venue that highlights the community’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing issues affecting women and children in Malawi.
The 16 Days of Activism Campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the violence that women and girls face daily. The campaign also serves as a call to action for all sectors of society to unite in the fight against gender-based violence, which remains a critical issue in Malawi.
During her arrival, First Lady Monica Chakwera expressed her deep commitment to tackling GBV and promoting a culture of respect, safety, and equality for all Malawians, regardless of gender. She emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence, including harmful cultural practices, lack of access to education, and economic disparities.
“This campaign is a reminder that gender-based violence must end. It is an obstacle to the progress of our nation, and we must all work together to create an environment where women and girls can live free from fear and harm,” said Madam Chakwera.
The First Lady also urged both men and women to challenge stereotypes and harmful beliefs that perpetuate violence against women, stressing that gender equality is essential for the sustainable development of Malawi.
“The responsibility to end gender-based violence is not only the duty of women. It is a collective responsibility that requires men, communities, and leaders to stand in solidarity and work towards a society where every individual is treated with dignity and respect,” she added.
The 2024 campaign is aligned with global efforts to achieve gender equality and eliminate violence against women and girls as part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event in Phalombe marks an important step in ensuring that the message of equality, respect, and the fight against gender-based violence reaches every corner of the country.
The launch also saw the participation of various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and community leaders, all of whom pledged to continue supporting efforts to raise awareness, provide support services for survivors, and advocate for stronger laws to protect women and girls from violence.
In conclusion, the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign launched by the First Lady in Phalombe represents a significant milestone in Malawi’s ongoing commitment to addressing GBV. Through continued advocacy, community engagement, and legislative reforms, Malawi hopes to foster a future where women and girls can live without fear of violence and discrimination.
