Chikwawa intensifies efforts to emprove GBV, child abuse cases reporting

Chikwawa District is intensifying efforts to eliminate challenges in reporting cases of gender-based violence (GBV), child protection, and sexual and reproductive health rights under the Arise Project, implemented by Abwenzi 360.

This follows concerns raised during an Arise Project progress meeting, where stakeholders identified failure to report cases, corruption, and perpetrators fleeing to Mozambique as key challenges.

Abwenzi 360’s Communications and Advocacy Manager, Emmanuel Kathewera, emphasized the organization’s commitment to educating children and women about their rights to reduce GBV cases.

“We have been receiving GBV cases, but many remain unresolved because some perpetrators flee to neighboring countries, making it difficult for us to apprehend them,” said Kathewera.

To address this, the organization is working closely with community committees and local groups to tackle GBV and child abuse cases effectively.

In a separate interview, Mercy Kokonongwa, a Victim Support Officer at Ngabu Police Station, noted that defilement and other sexual abuse cases are the most frequently reported.

“We appreciate Abwenzi 360 for assisting us in reaching remote areas where police and hospitals are scarce, as handling cases from these locations has been challenging,” said Kokonongwa.

She further stated that law enforcement is implementing stricter measures to improve case reporting and response.

Abwenzi 360, a non-governmental organization (NGO) supported by Amplify Change, operates in Traditional Authority Ngabu, specifically in Group Village Headmen (GVHs) Chaona Njiwa, Kalulu, Nkumaniza, and Therere.