Youth anti-corruption activists in Malawi face "threats", "intimidation"
As youth-led organizations persist in their efforts, they call for greater support and protection to ensure their voices are heard in the fight against corruption.
KARONGA, Malawi — Youth activists fighting corruption in Karonga district report facing “threats” and “intimidation” from individuals and institutions attempting to silence them, writes Alepher Katsongo.
Wiza Nyondo, executive director of Youth with Vision, a Karonga-based NGO, told AfricaBrief that his organization has been repeatedly warned to stop pursuing corruption cases or risk losing opportunities.
"Many young people are willing to fight corruption, but their voices and efforts are often dismissed by financially well-positioned people in society," Nyondo said.
The organization hosts an annual youth parliament to discuss transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption efforts.
"We ensure that information on public programs is available for the citizenry in Karonga and act when we notice a suspected move," Nyondo said.
He cited a recent success where they reported irregularities in Health Surveillance Assistant recruitment to the Anti-Corruption Bureau, leading to the cancellation of improper hires.
Charles Kajoloweka, Executive Director of Youth and Society (YAS), emphasized the importance of youth involvement in anti-corruption efforts, noting that young people comprise a significant portion of Malawi's population.
"The Malawi National Anti-Corruption Strategy Two lists young people as one of the 12 pillars in the fight against corruption," Kajoloweka said.
"The youth should never give up in the fight against corruption."
Kajoloweka expressed concern over the intimidation tactics.
"It's pathetic that some individuals and institutions threaten young people from reporting cases of corruption. This can negatively affect the country's progress in fighting the vice," he said.
Karonga has recently experienced a series of protests against corrupt practices in both public and private institutions.
Despite the challenges, youth organizations like Youth with Vision and YAS continue to push for transparency and accountability in the region.
The threats against anti-corruption activists highlight the ongoing struggle to combat corruption in Malawi, particularly at the local level.
As youth-led organizations persist in their efforts, they call for greater support and protection to ensure their voices are heard in the fight against corruption.