By Burnett Munthali
Vice President Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah SC, JA (Retired) has issued a strong national appeal, urging Malawians to intensify efforts in safeguarding women and girls as the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
In her message, Dr Ansah reasserts a powerful principle: no woman or girl should ever live under the weight of fear, abuse, or silence. She stresses that the annual commemoration is not merely ceremonial but a sobering reflection on the continued injustices faced by countless women across the country.
The Vice President emphasises that Malawi must confront the reality of gender-based violence with courage and unity. She calls on all citizens—men, women, institutions, and communities—to take responsibility in creating an environment where women’s rights, safety, and dignity are fully upheld.
Dr Ansah challenges families, educators, religious leaders, and employers to reject cultural beliefs and social attitudes that enable violence or discourage survivors from reporting abuse. She notes that silence often shields abusers and deepens the suffering of victims.
Highlighting the urgent need for a compassionate and accountable society, she urges Malawians to stand with survivors and speak out against all forms of violence. According to Dr Ansah, gender-based violence is a national concern that requires coordinated action across government, civil society, and traditional systems.
The Vice President further underscores the devastating social and developmental consequences of violence against women, explaining that it weakens family structures, destabilises communities, and slows national progress. Malawi, she says, cannot move forward while half of its population remains vulnerable to harm.
She calls for strengthened laws, improved enforcement, and increased investment in community programmes that support prevention and protection efforts. Dr Ansah insists that the justice system must be accessible, efficient, and free from intimidation so that survivors can confidently seek justice.
Holding institutions accountable is essential, she adds, if Malawi is to build a future grounded in fairness and equality.
Confident in the nation’s potential to change, Dr Ansah envisions a Malawi where every woman and girl can pursue her dreams without fear of violence or discrimination.
She concludes by reaffirming her dedication to advancing the rights and welfare of women and girls, and urges every Malawian to play a role in creating a safer and more equitable nation.
