Malawi rallies support for urban families on International Day of Families
Malawi joined the global community this week in commemorating the 2025 International Day of Families under the theme “Family and Urbanisation.”
Preceding the commemorations was a press briefing on Thursday led by the Minister of Gender Jean Sendeza where she underscored the importance of putting families at the centre of development.
During the main celebration at Chilimampunga School Ground in Lilongwe on Friday, Deputy Minister of Gender Halima Daudi stressed that families are the bedrock of society.
She said: “Families are the first school, the first hospital, and the first support system.
“When families are strong, nations grow stronger. But when families break down, society suffers.”
Daudi mentioned overcrowding, poverty, early marriages, and poor access to services, as some of the challenges facing the urban population.
On early marriage, statistics show that 38% of girls living in urban areas marry before reaching the age of 18, while 82% of children in those places experience violent discipline, and nearly half of first marriages among urban dwellers end in divorce within 20 years.
To address such challenges, the Ministry is implementing programmes aimed at ensuring there is positive parenting, economic empowerment initiatives, child protection case management, and the SP-GEAR programme.
“We’re strengthening referral systems, promoting family-based care, and raising awareness on gender equality, GBV (gender-based violence) prevention, and child protection in both urban and rural areas,” said Daudi.
Director of programmes at SOS Children’s Villages Steven Nyirenda said the organisation is running awareness campaigns in high-density areas like Mtandire to support families to cope with urban challenges.
“These campaigns are about restoring stability and resilience where it’s needed most,” he said.
Taking his turn, YouthNet and Counselling (Yoneco) executive director MacBain Mkandawire, said: “If we want a strong nation, we need strong families.
“When families fall apart, we see more children living on the streets. We must support and mentor one another to rebuild these vital units.”
