By Wongani Mkandawire

Nkhotakota, April 3, Mana: The Gender Justice Unit on Wednesday introduced a New Innovative project called Empower-line, that provides free access to legal information for survivors of Gender Based Violence.

Speaking with Malawi News Agency after the launch held at Nkhotakota District Council Chamber, Gender Justice Unit Project Officer Rosella Chibwana said that Empower-line Interactive Voice response aims at breaking the barrier for women and girls travelling long distances to seek help.

She added that the goal is to equip stakeholders with knowledge and skills to effectively utilize and to promote Empower-line as a legal resource for addressing Gender based violence in communities.

"We are introducing a Toll-free line where people can easily have access to basic legal information where they can simply call for free and listen to pre-recorded information on any issue, whether something related to the laws, or just to know their rights,” said Chibwana.

She added that there is also a mobile application which people connected to the internet can download and access the said information.

Speaking during the launch, Nkhotakota District's Principal Gender Officer, Alick Munthali, described the meeting as crucial as it brought together gender and child protection working groups, and provided key information that will contribute effectively to the efforts that the district is putting forth.

The project is supported by Segal Family Foundation, Embassy of Iceland and Procurement of IT Equipment and System Development.