The Commissioner for Eastern Region Police Headquarters Mr Happy Mkandawire was among the notable top officials who participated in the launch of 16 days of activism against gender based violence.
The function took place on December 7, 2021 at Chikala Primary School Traditional Authority Chamba in Machinga where the Deputy Minister of Agriculture Honorable Agnes Mkusankhoma was the guest of honour.
The 16 Days of Activism against gender based violence is an international campaign that annually kicks off on 25 November to 10 December with an aim of eliminating gender based violence.
This year’s theme is orange the Malawi: end violence against women now.
Speaking to the audience, Mkandawire assured the gathering of police commitment to end gender based violence in Machinga and the entire region in general.
Mkandawire cited that this year alone, Machinga has registered 116 cases of defilement. He outlined cultural practices, perceptions held by men as being superior and concealment of the malpractices when the perpetrator is a relative to be some of the contributing factors of defilement cases.
“I’m glad that through the awareness we have been conducting, the public is able to understand and report sexual offences. l therefore urge all stakeholders to continue working hand in hand with the Police to end the malpractice, ” said Mkandawire.
In her speech Mkusankhoma said that gender based violence is preventable, and noted with concern that 34 out 100 women are being molested sexually.
She also encouraged men to stop suffering in silence but rather open up and report to relevant authorities to get help.
“This is the time we reflect and campaign against gender based violence in our country, let us love one another and fight together, ” pleaded Mkusankhoma.
She also commended various stakeholders for supporting government in many ways.
Echoing the same, Senior Chief Chamba commended the deputy minister and top officials present for leading the fight against GBV.
He said that Chamba is one of the areas which is ensuring reinstatement of girls in schools after they dropped out.
To spice up the occasion, Eastern Region Police Women Network led by Jessie Nyirongo Assistant Commissioner of Police who is also the Chairperson for the grouping, held a parade in commemoration of Operation Basad.
The 16 Days of Gender Activisim campaign was started by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and continues to be coordinated each year.
Sub Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
PRO-Eastern Region Police Women Network
Cell:0999 706 525
Email:mamateps1152@gmail.com