The United Nations (UN) Women Peace Movement in Traditional Authority Jalasi has reached out to 48 322 with peace building and conflict resolution messages in Mangochi District.
This came to light on Thursday when UN Women visited the movement to appreciate efforts under the Women, Peace and Security project in the district.
Speaking during the visit, Jalasi Women Peace Movement chairperson Fatima Mustafa said they were making progress in promoting peace.
“We have reached out to 48 322 people with peace messages since the project rolled out in August 2023. Among them 14 000 are women, 8 000 are men, 16 322 are girls and 10 000 boys,” she said.
Mustafa attributed the achievement to coordination within the group and support from leaders at both local and district levels.
She said they resolved land disputes, addressed child marriages and referred rape cases to police, among other successes.
The group’s member Amina Ibrahim said their interventions have helped young girls to return to school after quitting early marriages.
Mangochi District Women Peace Movement chairperson Deborah Phiri said the initiative has empowered women to speak with a stronger voice and help communities understand that conflict hinders development.
“The movement has not only promoted peace, but has also encouraged women to become economically independent through income-generating activities, both in groups and as individuals,” she said.
UN Women country representative Letty Chiwara expressed satisfaction with the progress.
She said they will continue to support the movement to promote peace in the district
