Ngoni Warriors Battle Gender-Based Violence in Mzimba, Malawi
In Mzimba, the Ngoni warrior sheds his mask, revealing strength born of compassion—not dominance.
MZIMBA, Malawi— In Malawi's largest district of Mzimba, the battle against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) rages on. But in a predominantly patriarchal Ngoni society, warriors are not just fighting external foes—they are facing the 'demons' within, writes Francis Botha.
"The fight against GBV is our fight too," declares Micwell Mgomezulu, a transformed Ngoni warrior, his voice echoing with conviction. "Women must be accorded the respect and protection they deserve."
Mgomezulu and McLoud Nari, once symbols of Ngoni valor, now stand as beacons of change.
"We've danced our hearts out," they proclaim, condemning GBV and challenging long-held beliefs through a war memorial dance called ingoma.
Being warriors, the Ngoni people are expected to demonstrate bravery and masculinity as true defenders and protectors of their tribe and families.
They are known for their male-dominant traditions and customs such as polygamy and beer drinking.
But the fight doesn't end on the dance floor. Organizations like NCA/DCA wield innovative farming techniques as weapons of empowerment, striking at the root of patriarchal dominance.
NCA/DCA has supported mobile courts and village tribunals to deliver swift justice, bringing solace to victims and holding perpetrators of GBV accountable in Mzimba. The SASA Together approach empowers Ngoni communities to stand as guardians against violence.
Traditional leaders like Kaphika Banda of Kanjuchi adopt this flame. "Since the adoption of SASA Together Approach, violence has decreased drastically in my area," Banda testifies.
Amidst the symphony of change, voices like Isaac Nkhoma rise, testifying to the transformative power of unity in families and communities.
"I'm no longer bound by tradition's chains of masculinity," he proclaimed. "I've emerged as a champion of respect and equality."
In Mzimba, the Ngoni warrior sheds his mask, revealing strength born of compassion—not dominance.
A new legacy is forged—one where the warrior's greatest battle is within himself.