The District Principal Gender Development Officer, Ireen Mwenelupembe, has called on stakeholders in Karonga District to unite in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), saying the malpractice remains widespread in the district.
Mwenelupembe made the call on Saturday at Baka Primary School during the commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
“In the battle against gender-based violence, the Gender Affairs Department cannot win alone. We need the community, civil society organizations, and the police to come together and join efforts,” she said.
She noted that economic and sexual violence are the most commonly reported forms of abuse in the district, fueled by harmful cultural practices, forced marriages, and limited decision-making power among women, especially on the use of household income from harvests or other economic activities.
Mwenelupembe also highlighted growing concerns over mob justice against elders accused of witchcraft, rising cases of sexual harassment, and child trafficking to neighbouring countries.
She stressed that addressing these issues requires a coordinated response from all sectors.
Guest of Honour and Chairperson for Karonga District Council, Atusaye Mwenifumbo, described the continued rise in GBV cases as worrying, despite ongoing interventions by the council.
He assured that during the upcoming full council meetings, his administration will tirelessly develop bylaws to help fast-track GBV-related trials.
Deputy Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent Robert Ngwala, warned perpetrators that the law will take its course once they are caught.
He added that the police, through the community policing unit, are intensifying sensitization campaigns and have introduced radio programs aimed at educating communities on the dangers of GBV.
This year’s commemoration was held under the theme: “Violence Isn’t Culture, It Is a Crime.”
