Chiefs join NGOs in promoting girls’ rights

Chiefs in Dowa have joined hands with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in drive to end harmful cultural practices that affect children’s education in the district.

In an interview on Tuesday, Inkosi Msakambewa said the district has some harmful cultural practices that are affecting the rights of children, especially girls.

“Some communities in Dowa are still involved in cultural practices such as early marriages and kusa sa fumbi. These are harmful practices as they affect children’s rights, especially the right to education,” he said.

Msakambewa said   chiefs and other leaders are currently working with NGOs promoting children’s rights in the district.

The NGOs include Girls Empowerment Network (Genet), World Vision and Plan Malawi.

Earlier this week, the NGOs in partnership with Dowa District Social Welfare Office organised Youth Parliament where children outlined issues affecting them.

Genet gender programmes officer Twambilile Kayuni said her organisation is empowering youths to speak out whenever their rights are violated