By Draxon Maloya
M’mbelwa District Social Welfare Officer Sebastian Mkandawire says the Mzimba district continues registering concerning Gender-Based violence (GBV) cases, which are still alarming
Recent reports indicate an average of 70 cases registered every three months despite numerous interventions by various stakeholders in the fight against GBV.
The Gender officer says that despite numerous interventions by various stakeholders, the significant surge in GBV cases remains a critical matter yet to be addressed at all levels of the society.
Speaking on Wednesday during the roadshows that took to Embangweni, Edingeni, Eswazini, and Jenda on GBV awareness campaign Mkandawire, acknowledged the efforts being made to address the issue, including the implementation of the Spotlight Initiatives.
“While progress is being made, there is still much work to be done to address the root causes of GBV in Mzimba District. We prefer conducting roadshows to sensitize the masses about the dangers of GBV,” Mkandawire said.
He further said the initiative that aims to eliminate violence against women and girls has led to the formation of groups like the District Technical Support Network which facilitates efforts to combat GBV and provides support to survivors.
Inspector Lillian Kamanga, Station Officer for Embangweni police post, emphasized the police’s commitment to sensitizing communities about GBV and taking action against perpetrators.
“We take part in sensitizing communities on the dangers of GBV, and those found on the wrong side of the law are taken to court,” Kamanga said.
Jennifer Mkandawire, Executive Director of the Foundation for Children’s Rights, expressed gratitude for the high participation of men in this year’s GBV sensitization campaigns.
“This is an extension of the Beijing Conference on Gender-Based Violence, aimed at providing collective efforts to reduce even suicide cases among men who at times fall GBV victims,” Mkandawire said.
Malawi has joined the rest of the world in observing 16 Days of activism against Gender-Based Violence with the global theme: “Tracing the Origins: Standing Against GBV.”
