Catholic Group Launches Peace Project in Malawi's Border District
The CCJP emphasized the importance of including women and youth in peacebuilding initiatives, noting their frequent exclusion from such efforts.
KARONGA, Malawi— The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) is launching a project to enhance conflict resolution skills in Karonga, a border district in northern Malawi, writes Lusekero Mhango.
The four-month initiative, "Strengthen Malawi's Peace Infrastructure for Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace in Borderland Districts," was presented to the District Executive Committee on Thursday.
Obert Mkandawire, CCJP's desk officer for justice and peace, said the project targets District and Area Peace and Unity Committees.
"By focusing on women and youth, we believe we can influence a long-term mindset change, strengthening peacebuilding efforts and ultimately bringing lasting peace to the district," Mkandawire said.
The project, supported by UN Women, will be implemented in four traditional authorities: Kilupula, Mwakaboko, Kyungu and Wasambo.
Aaron Mwenelupembe, secretary of the Karonga District Peace and Unity Committee, welcomed the initiative.
"As a Peace and Unity Committee, we lacked the capacity to resolve many cases," Mwenelupembe said.
"This project is a significant boost to our efforts in building peace and mediating conflicts, especially in Karonga, where many issues remain unresolved."
The CCJP emphasized the importance of including women and youth in peacebuilding initiatives, noting their frequent exclusion from such efforts.