CSJ Calls for Public Awareness on Abortion Bill
Malawi's attempt to legalize abortion under strict conditions has faced opposition from anti-abortion groups, including religious organizations, stalling the bill's progress in Parliament.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The Centre for Solutions Journalism is urging more public awareness campaigns on Malawi's proposed Termination of Pregnancy bill ahead of parliamentary deliberations, writes Martin Kamlaike.
Executive Director Brian Ligomeka made the call on May 10 in Lilongwe during a media training aimed at building journalists' capacity to report on sexual and reproductive health issues, including access to safe abortion services.
"Usually when we go for media training as journalists, we are trained on general principles, but some issues like health require specific knowledge," Ligomeka told reporters after the training.
"We wanted to fill that gap so journalists can report professionally on safe motherhood and sexual and reproductive health rights."
Ligomeka cited statistics showing the rural-urban divide in accessing family planning and reproductive health services, with greater challenges in villages compared to cities and towns.
He suggested raising awareness about the bill's provisions, which he said are often misunderstood.
The bill would allow abortion in cases where the pregnant woman's life is at risk, her physical or mental health is endangered, or in cases of rape or defilement.
"The problem lies in misunderstanding the bill, where people assume it will open floodgates for people to demand the service anyhow when passed and enacted by Parliament," Ligomeka said.
Journalist Dorica Mtenje of Maravi Post commended the training, saying it will improve reporting on health issues.
Going forward, she plans to engage communities, health facilities and the health ministry to access data reflecting rural realities.
Malawi's attempt to legalize abortion under strict conditions has faced opposition from anti-abortion groups, including religious organizations, stalling the bill's progress in Parliament.