Malawi NGO Launches K160 Million Project to Combat Teen Pregnancies
NSANJE, Malawi — Churches Action in Relief and Development (CARD) has initiated a K160 million project aimed at eliminating teenage marriages and early pregnancies in Nsanje district, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
The Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) project targets two Traditional Authorities, Ndamera and Tengani, following a survey that revealed high rates of teen marriages and pregnancies in these areas.
Jemimah Phiri, Project Coordinator for Faith Based Approach to SRHR, announced the project during an interface meeting at Senior Chief Tengani's headquarters on Tuesday.
The project aims to reach 10,000 families in each Traditional Authority area over three years.
"We will work hand in hand with traditional leaders, religious leaders, parents, and other structures to curb this vice," Phiri said.
Senior Chief Tengani welcomed the initiative, noting that cultural practices often fuel these issues.
He highlighted that many NGOs operate along the M1 road, leaving hard-to-reach areas like Misamu, Kawa, Nthondo, and Bwangu underserved.
"CARD has assured me that they will not leave any stone unturned in the implementation of this three-year SRHR project," the Senior Chief stated.
The project is supported by Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) and DanChurch Aid (DCA), with funding from the Royal Norwegian government.
This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to address reproductive health challenges and cultural practices affecting young people in rural Malawi.