){kind=link}
Malawi: The administration and high level government officials in Thyolo District are worried about the rising cases of gender based violence (GBV). The authorities have recently conducted a comparison survey for the number of cases which has reflected an increase.
According to the officials, the district has reported 157 from January to June this year. This, when seen in contrast to 2023 reports an increase of over 30% increase. In 2023, the district had reported 120 cases of gender based violence in the corresponding period.
The officials have also shared detailed statistics of cases recorded In each section of gender based violence. As such, the cases include 13 reports of defilement, 7 reports of rape, 68 illegal divorces, 17 extramarital affairs, 23 cases of partners failing to provide.
When seem in contrast to last year the number was at 12 for defilement, 7 for rape, 30 for illegal divorces, 19 extramarital affairs and 17 cases of partners failing to provide respectively.
Thyolo Police Station Community Policing Coordinator, Rome Chauluka offered his remarks on the issue in a media interaction. The officer said lack of responsibility and cultural beliefs are the contributing factors for the malpractice.
“For one to commit defilement it just shows that one is irresponsible in their actions in the communities. Cultural belief is also another factor where a girl child is considered as a grown person after reaching a certain age thereby putting them at high risk of being defiled,” said Chauluka.
Chauluka said the police are working hand in with all traditional leaders and communities in the district to ensure that such cases are dealt with at the grass root level. Senior Chief Nchiramwera said they have set committees that look at GBV cases at community level.
“We are working hand in hand with village heads through village committees by putting by-laws which see those in conflict with the law getting penalties,” he said.
Chief Nchiramwera, therefore, urged communities to remain committed in curbing different forms of GBV that are increasing on daily basis.