The Women Lawyers Association of Malawi (WLA) has pledged to provide free legal services to victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and child marriages as part of its continued efforts to promote and protect the rights of women and children in the country.
Speaking during a legal awareness campaign and clinic held at Chatoloma in Traditional Authority (T/A) Mnyanja, WLA Executive Director Golda Rapozo said despite the existence of laws and policies against GBV and child marriages, many victims still suffer in silence.
“We organise these legal clinics—so far in 18 districts across the country—to raise awareness that gender-based violence and child marriages are violations of human rights. We want people to know they have the right to report such cases to the relevant authorities whenever they feel victimised,” said Rapozo.
The campaign drew participants from various sectors including local leaders, judicial officers, and community members, aiming to enhance public understanding of legal rights and responsibilities.
Kasungu District Social Welfare Officer Ephraim Njikho commended WLA for complementing district efforts to encourage victims of GBV and child marriages to seek help.
T/A Mnyanja, who also attended the event, urged fellow local leaders to act swiftly on GBV and early marriage cases, saying:
“Many cases go unreported because survivors believe they cannot afford legal representation. The free legal services being offered by WLA will help ensure that victims no longer die in silence.”
Kasungu Second Grade Magistrate Samuel Chakudza stressed the need for the public to seek justice whenever their rights are violated. He also called for stronger collaboration among traditional, faith, and community leaders to support survivors in accessing justice.
“Stakeholders like the Women Lawyers Association should also consider enforcing mobile courts to make justice more accessible, especially in rural areas,” he said.
The legal awareness campaign covered issues such as gender-based violence, early marriages, deceased estates, inheritance rights, and domestic relationships.
At the close of the clinic, 17 cases were registered—comprising one personal injury, six land disputes, seven matrimonial cases, two GBV cases, and one employment-related matter. WLA lawyers provided free legal advice and guidance on the next legal steps for each complainant.
