Dear Reader,
The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of Children concluded its recent meeting on October 12, 2024, highlighting two crucial issues for Malawi that demand urgent attention. First, there is an alarming rise in concerns regarding adolescent sexual and reproductive health, evidenced by increasing rates of teenage pregnancies and school dropouts. This trend not only jeopardizes the future of our youth but also poses significant challenges to our educational system and societal development. Second, the effective implementation of child protection guidelines is imperative, particularly in establishing steady reporting mechanisms for children affected by violence and abuse. Strengthening helplines and other reporting avenues is a critical priority that requires our renewed focus to ensure that children can safely report incidents without fear of retribution or stigma.
Violence against children remains a pervasive issue in Malawi, manifesting at various societal levels. In response to this ongoing crisis, Malawi will actively participate in the commitment meeting in Bogotá from November 7-8, 2024. As a nation, we must critically reassess our strategies for combating violence against children, particularly sexual violence, which has regrettably become normalized within our communities. While we strive to create a safer environment for our children, we continue to witness alarming cases of violence compounded by inadequate justice delivery through our child justice system.
November marks the beginning of two significant campaigns aimed at addressing violence and abuse. The 19 Days of Activism for Prevention of Youth and Child Abuse followed by the 16 Days of Activism on Gender-Based Violence. Despite these important awareness campaigns, we are witnessing a troubling increase in incidents of abuse and violence, highlighting an urgent need for decisive action across all sectors of society.
As the rainy season approaches, its impact is already being felt across Malawi. The Solution Campus on Climate Change Health Induced Challenges, held in Dakar, Senegal on October 26, 2024, showcased various strategies to tackle these pressing issues. It is essential for Malawi to revisit local solutions that address climate-related health challenges. Our initiatives in Zomba and Machinga have documented the adverse effects of climate change on health, with current heat waves leading to dehydration and other health complications.
Our environmental efforts continue to expand through school nutrition and health programs that emphasize reforestation and sustainable practices. Additionally, YONECO has launched an environmental initiative in Ntcheu, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Furthermore, Malawi will join other nations at COP29 in Baku from November 5, 2024, to engage with global leaders on urgent climate change issues and contribute to international solutions.
Let us unite our efforts to create a safer and healthier Malawi for our children, ensuring that they can thrive in an environment free from violence and adversity.
Have a wonderful November
