Children in Balaka are taking matters into their own hands using a newly launched Children’s Parliament to speak out against early marriages, harmful cultural norms, and poor access to education and health services.
In a session held at Namalomba School under Traditional Authority Kalembo on Tuesday — which captured the attention of government officials, community leaders, and civil society organisations — Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, John Shadreck, called out the lack of parental care as a major contributor to the challenges children face.
“This needs to change if we want a better future for us as children,” he said.
The children expressed concern about harmful cultural norms and behaviours, including the use of inappropriate language and pressure to conform to outdated traditions.
The initiative served as a platform for children to speak directly to authorities about their lived realities.
According to Malawi Girl Guides Association (MAGGA) Executive Director, Mphatso Baluwa Jim, the parliament was not only a mere dialogue but a breakthrough.
“It has not only given children the courage to speak out but also created space for other organisations to recognise and act on the concerns raised,” Jim said.
Jim revealed plans to use the parliament as a consistent space for children to influence decisions that affect their lives.
Balaka District Director of Administration, Lawrence Kalinga, praised MAGGA for championing child participation and amplifying children’s voices, saying it’s a wake-up call to all stakeholders to pay attention to what our children are going through.
The event was organised by MAGGA through its Tikwanilitse Ndikuteteza Ma Ufulu a Ana Project, in partnership with Save the Children Malawi and supported by NORAD.
By Hellen Luwayo, Balaka
