Emmanuel International Malawi has encouraged the youth in Phalombe District to report gender-based violence (GBV), including child marriages to promote access to justice for the victims.
To ensure that the messages reach many youths, the organisation conducted a sports bonanza and theatre performances on Sunday in the district where the organisation’s project officer Edson Levison tackled harmful cultural practices that fuel child marriages.
He said that using drama to disseminate the messages enabled communities to see real life situations played on stage and discuss solutions.
Levison said that through the youth-led campaign, they were able to promote positive attitudes and encourage men and boys to take part in the fight against GBV.
“At the end of the day, we want GBV survivors to access appropriate services,” he said.
Phalombe district gender officer James Gubudu commended the initiative, saying youth involvement is crucial in fighting GBV at community level.
He said that his office continues to face challenges where some offenders flee to Mozambique after committing offences and some families withdraw cases; hence, denying survivors access to justice.
Gubudu warned that his office will not tolerate people who sit on GBV cases and shield perpetrators, saying the law will take its course.
The Titukule Amai Project is running in partnership with the Centre for Alternatives for Victimised Women and Children with support from Global Affairs Canada in the district
