By Agatha Kadzinje

Blantyre, December 3, Mana: As Malawi and the rest of the world joins 16 Days of Activism to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV), youths in Malawi have taken the initiative to fight for equality.

Executive Director of the Concerned Youth Organization (CYO), Harvey Chimaliro, told Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Tuesday that young people should actively participate in raising awareness about GBV and support victims using resources available to them.

“There are various ways in which we, as youth, can reach out to people facing physical and emotional abuse from their spouses or guardians. Since youths are active in the media space, activism should also be conducted online,” he said.

Chimaliro disclosed that CYO is partaking in the campaign in two ways; direct community engagement and online media campaigns through sharing messages aligned with the themes of the 16 Days of Activism, following both the Malawi government and global themes.

“As CYO, we are committed to addressing GBV issues and advocating for survivors by providing support and helping them recover from trauma,” he said.

Chimaliro expressed hope that after the campaign, Malawians will uphold the knowledge gained to foster a society where dignity and respect for all are prioritized.

He added that youth-led initiatives will shape a generation better equipped to combat GBV as they grow into leadership roles.

Chimaliro urged other organizations and stakeholders to continue their efforts beyond the 16 Days of Activism, as GBV is a year-round issue.

CYO is part of the organizing team for 16 Days of Activism commemoration for Mchinji District on December 9, where they will showcase their initiatives to raise GBV awareness.

In a separate interview, Blantyre District Council Youth Officer Peter Mizedya told MANA that, as the largest demographic in Malawi, youths must be involved in addressing GBV which, he said, affect the country's development.

Mizedya added that youths in Blantyre District are engaged in civic education on GBV through their youth clubs.

However, he pointed out challenges such as many abusers holding positions of power, making it difficult to address cases.

He expressed concern that youths often lack funds to support their initiatives.

He advocated for stakeholders to empower youths with basic skills to handle GBV cases effectively.

Mizedya disclosed that the district council is working with organizations such as DAPP, the Young Women’s Christian Association, and the Project of Malaria, which implements SASA, a programme developed to be used by youths to prevent violence against women and girls in communities.

He emphasized that GBV awareness initiatives must continue beyond the campaign and offenders be held accountable, and that every Malawian citizen must take part in ending GBV.

First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera officially launched 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign on November 25 in Phalombe.

This year’s theme is "United to End Violence Against Women and Girls in Malawi: Towards Beijing +30."

The campaign runs from November 25 to December 10, 2024.