Government has described violence in all its forms as one of the greatest barriers to achieving inclusive development.
Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Gender, Oliver Kumbambe, said this today during a monitoring visit of the Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza programme in Lilongwe.
He said violence continues to undermine efforts to build prosperous and resilient communities.
Nonetheless, he commended the progress and positive impact the Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza programme is making in preventing violence at the community level.
He noted that women, girls and children remain the most affected, facing gender-based violence, child abuse, child labour, child marriage and other harmful practices.
He said that addressing violence requires collective action beyond legal measures, with communities, institutions and stakeholders working together to prevent abuse and ensure survivors receive quality, survivor-centred support services.
Kumbambe reaffirmed the Malawi Government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and eliminating all forms of violence.
He also described the Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza programme as a key initiative in strengthening community-based prevention, protection and response systems.
Executive Director of the Girls Empowerment Network, Faith Phiri, said communities have embraced the programme and called for coordinated efforts to end violence across the country.
Traditional Authority Kalolo also urged communities to work together in curbing violence.
The traditional leader said peaceful communities are essential for sustainable local and national development.
By Wanangwa Mvalo
