Malawi to Launch Empowerline App to Combat Gender-Based Violence
The app will provide users with essential resources, including information on legal rights, access to support services, and tools for reporting incidents of online violence.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The Gender and Justice Unit is set to launch Empowerline, an innovative mobile app designed to combat technology-facilitated gender-based violence (GBV), on November 28, 2024, writes Winston Mwale.
This pivotal initiative will be unveiled during a landmark webinar coinciding with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The app will provide users with essential resources, including information on legal rights, access to support services, and tools for reporting incidents of online violence.
The webinar will mark a significant milestone in Malawi's ongoing fight against tech-facilitated GBV, coinciding with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The discussions will range from judicial perspectives and survivors’ experiences to law enforcement expertise and academic research.
The launch event will feature a distinguished panel of experts from law, technology, and gender justice who will discuss the app's potential impact on addressing tech-facilitated GBV.
Among the esteemed speakers will be:
Gladwel Kubwalo: Senior Superintendent of the Malawi Police Services, with extensive experience in cybercrime investigations.
Upile Chisala: Poet and storyteller who explores the intersection of technology and creativity, recognized in Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 list.
Habiba Osman: Executive Secretary of the Malawi Human Rights Commission, advocating for gender and human rights issues.
Sarai Chisala-Tempelhoff: Founder and Executive Director of the Gender and Justice Unit, an expert in women's access to justice and digital gender-based violence.
Justice Zione Ntaba: Judge at the High Court of Malawi, dedicated to issues of gender, children, and disability rights.
Bridget Oscar Phiri: Development professional passionate about cybersecurity and online safety for young women.
Jimmy Kainja: Senior Lecturer in Media, Communication and Cultural Studies at the University of Malawi, focusing on digital rights and freedom of expression.
Ulemu Hannah Kanyongolo: Lecturer in Law at the University of Malawi and founder of the Young Feminists Network, working on women's rights advocacy.
The webinar aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, encouraging proactive solutions to combat GBV in the digital context.
Participants will be encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and explore strategies for enhancing legal protections and support for survivors.
The introduction of Empowerline represents a significant advancement in Malawi's efforts to combat gender-based violence in the digital age.
By providing direct access to legal resources and support, the app aims to empower individuals and create a safer online environment for all.