Activity Report on the Training Workshop in at Mtima Village (Malawi) on Gender-Based Violence

Workshop on Gender Violence in Malawi

When the Week of Nonviolence (now the Month of Nonviolence) first started, it was very focused on activities and events in the U.S.A.  I had to keep reminding us that violence happens everywhere, and that Black Women for Positive Change is a global movement. 

I am delighted that we are now receiving reports on activities during the Month of Nonviolence from further afield, including Nigeria and this one from Malawi.  Sisters, we stand united with our brothers in our commitment to nonviolence and peace.  

You may also be interested in this interview with Mercy Mekinde, a Nigerian woman who helps women escape from domestic violence.  

Harmony for Families and Communities have held a workshop in Malawi on gender-based violence.  

I will not reproduce the entire report here, but I have focused on some of the highlights.  You can request a copy of the full report from harmonyforfamiliesandcommuniti@gmail.com 

Brief Background

Harmony for Families and Communities (HFC) is a local Malawian organization based in Zomba and started operating in March 2021.

Harmony for Families and Communities supports various women, girls and child focused initiatives through a holistic approach that makes it able to cover different challenges that affect their development in the community. This approach identifies and addresses both mental and physical needs that are essential for a healthy future generation.

All projects and programs that HFC initiate are designed in a way that the direct beneficiaries are women, girls and children.  This is what is needed to bring about positive change.  

41 participants attended the workshop.  It was led by local officials.  

Event Key Highlights

Participants demonstrated increased understanding of the distinction between gender and sex, gender-based violence forms (physical, emotional, economic, negligence and psychological). 

Facilitators provided information on reporting procedures and mechanism such as the toll free numbers (116), support services like the One Stop Centre and legal recourse like the Protection Order, Whistle Blowing

Participants discussed cultural practices and societal attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence such as women shielding their husbands, the silence culture and beliefs that men are the ones that are breadwinners. 

Participants discussed the dangers, implications and the legal framework of gender-based violence such as the Constitution of Malawi (Chapter 4), The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, The 50, 50 Campaign, The Child Protection Act, and The Penal Code among others.  

Community members identified local gender-based violence hotspots and pledged to establish a community watchdog committee.

Challenges and Lessons Learnt 

 Limited time for in depth discussions 

• Need for sustained follow up and support 

•  Importance of involving local leaders and traditional authority

For a copy of the full report, please contact Harmony for Families and Communities at harmonyforfamiliesandcommuniti@gmail.com 

 

Well done, sistas and brothas!  You should be very proud of the work you have done.  Keep up the good work!  

Go here for more from the Blogging Carnival for Nonviolence 2024.