Tithese Nkhaza Project Empowers GBV Survivors in Karonga
EAM has also collaborated with mother group committees in primary and secondary schools throughout the district.
Karonga, Malawi - In a concerted effort to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in Karonga district, the Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM), with the support of Norwegian Church Aid, has embarked on the transformative Tithese Nkhaza project, writes Ellah Chirwa.
Karonga district shares its border with Tanzania, a region where human trafficking is a pressing concern, early marriages persist, and various forms of abuse are prevalent.
EAM initiated the Tithese Nkhaza project in 2020, commencing with an awareness campaign aimed at educating residents about ending GBV within families. Over its three-year existence, the project has yielded remarkable results in the district.
One of the project's significant achievements has been the recovery of nine children who had been trafficked to Tanzania, with two returning to a mentally unstable condition.
This success has had a positive impact on the community.
EAM has also collaborated with mother group committees in primary and secondary schools throughout the district.
This strategic partnership has led to a reduction in early pregnancies and marriages, while also empowering girls who had been coerced into marriage at a young age.
Jane Msompha, a girl who was encouraged to return to school after giving birth, shared her aspirations for the future, emphasizing her desire to be a role model for her community.
"I have taken the Malawi School Certificate of Education exams, and I am hoping for good results because I aspire to be a role model for my sister and my community. I want to work with organizations that empower girls, and I believe my dream will come true. My past was horrible because I was married to a terrible man," said Msompha.
She further urged parents to change their mindset that treats girls as commodities for dowry, as this contributes to GBV in the district.
Furthermore, ten women who are survivors of GBV from Ngisi and Chikutu in Traditional Authority Mwakaboko were provided with an opportunity to acquire vocational skills and received sewing machines to support their families.
These sewing machines have brought about a practical transformation in their lives, enabling them to send their children to school and ensure their families have a stable livelihood.
Lucy Mtambo, representing the group of ten, expressed their triumph and gratitude to EAM for bringing light into their previously dark world.
"The community has changed, and the skills we have acquired will not be selfishly kept to ourselves. We will also teach our fellow women. Overall, we thank EAM for showing us a better path and enhancing our financial resilience. In the past, we relied solely on crop yields, and this year we did not harvest much due to a dry spell," said Mtambo.
Group Village Headman Mwandambo also expressed his gratitude for the developments that have transformed the lives of many residents in his area. He pledged to collaborate closely with EAM in eradicating GBV.
During a visit to sites where EAM implements the project, the Country Director for Norwegian Church Aid and Dan Church Aid, Stephen Jansen, commended the progress made and lauded Ngisi as a champion in the fight against GBV.
Bentley Mwalwanda, the Regional Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, expressed his optimism about the significant changes seen in many areas of the district.
He believes these changes provide hope for achieving a 100% eradication of the vice.
The Evangelical Association of Malawi is a faith-based organization that places great importance on religion as a catalyst for positive change.
It collaborates closely with community structures, faith leaders, and service providers to achieve its goals.