By Yankho Kandio

Salima, April 19, Mana: Children from Chinguluwe and Lipimbi wards in Salima on Friday were given a rare opportunity of speaking directly to duty bearers about issues affecting their lives during a Children’s Parliament session organized by World Vision Malawi.

The event, which took place under the theme of child participation and empowerment, brought together children from various schools in the area, who debated and presented their views on pressing matters such as climate change, education, and child welfare.

In his remarks, Member of Parliament (MP) for Dedza North Constituency and Chairperson for the Parliamentary Committee on Social and Community Affairs, Savel Kafwafwa, commended World Vision for creating a platform that allows children to raise their voices on issues that matter to them.

He said the initiative provides lawmakers with first hand insight into the challenges that children face.

“Children’s Parliament is a good platform where we can learn about issues affecting them. It is different when a teacher reports to you, but when you interact directly with children you get to hear the real issues from them,” he said.

He recalled a previous event where children reported a case of abuse by a teacher.

“Upon investigation, the claim was found to be true and the teacher was arrested. This is the power of giving children a voice,” he said.

Kafwafwa emphasized the importance of sustaining such initiatives beyond donor support, calling for government funding through district councils.

He suggested allocating part of the school improvement grant towards establishing children’s parliaments across constituencies.

World Vision Malawi Project Officer for Livelihood and Resilience, Adamson Kamwana, said the organization is child focused and believes in allowing children to speak for themselves.

“We realized that oftentimes decisions are made on behalf of children without really listening to them. This platform allows them to share their concerns directly with those who have the power to act,” Kamwana said.

He noted that such forums have contributed to national policy changes, citing the law prohibiting child marriage under the age of 18, which was influenced in part by children’s advocacy through similar platforms.

Speaker of the House, Grace Dumbo, hailed the initiative as a milestone in empowering children.

“This Parliament gives us chance to raise our concerns and propose solutions. We feel to be part of the society.

“These platforms help to shape policy and inspire children to dream big. Some of those who were in Standard Six when we started are now in college, motivated by these experiences,” she said.