NGO empowers 1500 girls to fight GBV
Malawi Girl Guides Association has drilled 1 500 girls in Dedza District to fight gender-based violence and promote access to sexual and reproductive health services.
The girls, who underwent a six-month safe space mentorship programme, also acquired business management skills.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony on Monday, the organisation’s programmes coordinator Tamanda Mlumbe said the programme empowered the girls to fight for their rights.
“The programme has also improved access to sexual reproductive health services among girls,” she said.
Dedza district social welfare officer Hellene Simwaka said harmful cultural practices and poverty have affected girls’ education in the district.
She commended the organisation for introducing the programme, saying it will address challenges girls face in the district.
One of the girls, Alice Kabaye from Traditional Authority Kaphuka, said the organisation motivated her to return to school.
“After joining the programme, I was linked to a village savings and loans group where I saved money to start a small-scale business that helps me to take care of my child,” she said.
Malawi Girl Guides Association is implementing a four-year Action for Adolescent Girls and Young Women Project with funding from Coica in Dedza and Nchinji districts.
