By Aisha Chiwaya

Salima, November 6, Mana: Citizen Alliance has embarked on a project aimed at improving access to complaint-handling mechanisms for vulnerable populations in Malawi, with a focus on raising awareness about available legal support services.

Speaking in an interview, Executive Director for citizen alliance, Baxston Nkhoma said the project involves training leaders from various networks and associations to evaluate and bolster mechanisms in institutions such as the police and health facilities.

 “Our goal is to ensure that vulnerable groups know how to access services provided by the Malawi Legal Aid Bureau and paralegals, essential for their legal protection,” Nkhoma said.

He noted that discussions with duty bearers revealed significant gaps in support systems, underscoring the need for robust and reliable complaint mechanisms.

He stressed that improving these mechanisms would create an environment where marginalized people feel secure to raise their concerns.

“Accessible and harm-reducing mechanisms are crucial for ensuring safety and trust,” he added.

Yohane Kapalamula, one of the people with albinism, emphasized the training's importance as crucial in helping vulnerable populations in communities.

He said, “These sessions help us to identify issues and know when our rights are violated, making this project vital".

He However, highlighted barriers such as lack of awareness, limited access, mistrust, and interference from social and political structures which he said, reduce the effectiveness of current complaint-handling mechanisms.

The Citizen Alliance project aims to support survivors of human rights violations through better reporting systems and education and ensuring that their rights are upheld.