The Malawi Girl Guides Association (MAGGA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has engaged over 100 youths from Nanjiri and Mvunguti in Lilongwe to address drug and alcohol abuse, which often leads to sexual and gender-based violence.
Project Coordinator for MAGGA, Alinafe Mahimanya, emphasised the dangers of neglecting the youth during the festive season, noting that peer pressure often drives them to substance abuse.
Mahimanya stressed the importance of equipping young people with knowledge about their rights, mental health protection, and empowerment strategies.
Deputy Director in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mary Waya, praised MAGGA for the initiative, stating that such efforts are helping young people realise their potential and become productive citizens.
Waya encouraged the youth to believe in their abilities and talents and to utilise them while they are still young.
This initiative is part of MAGGA’s “Rights-Based Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Project for Girls and Young Women,” funded by the Norwegian Campaign for Development and Solidarity.
The project aims to influence 20,000 girls and boys to resist peer pressure and harmful behaviours while promoting sustainable communities through education and positive role models.
By Yamikani Makanga
