Moravian Humanitarian and Development Services, a non-governmental organization, has launched a project aimed at empowering women and engaging men to end gender-based violence (GBV) in Dowa District, Malawi. The initiative will focus on faith and community engagement to promote gender-equitable attitudes and prevent violence. The project will target various groups, including faith leaders, men, boys, adolescent girls, and young women. This approach seeks to address the root causes of GBV and create a supportive environment for survivors.
According to Belinda Mzembe, manager of Moravian Humanitarian and Development Services, the project will strengthen the capacity of 40 faith leaders to address GBV. The organization will also engage 150 men and boys as active partners in prevention efforts. Furthermore, 150 adolescent girls and young women from Dzaleka Refugee Camp will be empowered to protect themselves from violence. Mzembe emphasized the importance of involving men and boys in the prevention efforts to create a lasting impact.
The project will also improve access to survivor support services and provide safe spaces and basic psychosocial support for girls and young women. Mzembe noted that the organization decided to extend the project to host communities after observing that most GBV programmes primarily targeted women. This approach aims to promote inclusivity and address the needs of all affected groups.
Dowa District Council director of planning and development, Phillimon Maseko, welcomed the initiative, citing the high number of GBV cases reported in the district. He emphasized that this is the right time to step up efforts to stop the vice. Maseko's sentiments reflect the growing concern about GBV in the district and the need for collaborative efforts to address the issue.
Mzembe highlighted that many people turn to faith leaders when faced with challenges, making them crucial stakeholders in addressing GBV. By engaging faith leaders and involving men and boys, the project seeks to create a supportive environment for survivors and prevent future cases of violence.
The project will be implemented in Dowa District, where GBV cases have been reported to be on the rise. The initiative is expected to make a positive impact on the lives of women, girls, and other affected groups. By promoting gender-equitable attitudes and empowering women, the project aims to contribute to a reduction in GBV cases in the district.
Moravian Humanitarian and Development Services' initiative is a significant step towards addressing GBV in Malawi. The project's focus on faith and community engagement, as well as its inclusive approach, sets it apart from other programmes. With the support of stakeholders, including faith leaders and community members, the project is poised to make a lasting impact in Dowa District.
Key points
- The project aims to empower women and engage men to end GBV in Dowa District.
- 40 faith leaders will be trained to address GBV.
- The project will provide safe spaces and psychosocial support for girls and young women.
