By George Mponda
Karonga, June 16, Mana: Commissioner for the National Children’s Commission (NCC), Lyka Milanzie has called for collective action among stakeholders to protect child rights and ensure they grow in a safe and supportive environment for Malawi’s development.
Commissioner Milanzie said this on Monday in Karonga during an awareness meeting with the Karonga District Council Child Protection Committe on the roles of the NCC.
Milanzie said: "The Commission, which operates as an independent oversight body, was created in 2019 but became operational in 2024 to provide leadership, coordination and accountability on all matters affecting children in the country.
“The Commission’s role goes beyond policy advice as it also plays a key part in ensuring children’s voices are heard and their rights protected across all levels of society."
She added that NCC exists to ensure that no child is left behind, especially in areas of education, health, and justice.
“It monitors the implementation of child-focused policies and investigates rights violations, working with partners at both national and community levels,” she said.
Milanzie further explained that the Commission serves as a bridge between government institutions, civil society and communities to ensure that efforts to protect children are well coordinated and impactful.
District Youth Officer for Karonga, Lapken Liwago said the Commission’s presence will increase awareness and accountability in how child related issues are handled at district level.
“Local structures such as youth networks and community child protection committees will now operate within a stronger framework to report and follow up on cases of abuse and neglect.
“The Commission will empower them with the knowledge and tools to take action, while also giving children and youth a platform to participate in decision making processes that affect their lives,” said Liwago.
Liwago also urged the Commission to take its initiatives to rural areas and communicate in local languages saying this is where most child rights issues occur.
NCC is conducting district level engagements across Malawi to ensure grassroots involvement in its mandate.
