Minister of Gender, Jean Sendeza, has bemoaned the rising cases of child abuse across the country.
Sendeza was speaking in Lilongwe ahead of the commemoration of the International Day of the African Child, which will be held in Salima on Friday, 26 July.
Sendeza cited cases in Balaka and Ntchisi districts, where reports indicate numerous child abuse incidents.
She warned that the law will take its course against perpetrators.
The minister acknowledged that apart from poverty, impacts of natural disasters and divorces fuel child abuse.
She said the government continues to construct classroom blocks to create a conducive and safe environment for primary school learners and in early childhood centres.
On the International Day of the African Child, children will highlight the challenges they face, while stakeholders, including community leaders, government, and non-state actors, will review gains in child protection and remaining challenges in the fight against child abuse.
By Isaac Jali
