Gender-based violence knows no boundaries—social, economic, orcultural—and continues to plague too many women and girls.

Cases and report on Sexual Abuse and Defilement keep on being reported in the media. For how long will this continue? Despite endless sensitization efforts to curb the malpractice, why continuing having such heartbreaking reports?

These are questions that leave every one speechless with the rampant cases of sexual abuse which keep on being reported on daily basis. Referring to a tragic story published by Malawi News Agency which happened in January, 25, 2025 at area 36 in Lilongwe where a thirteen year old girl was brutally murdered after being defiled by her twenty-six year old brother in law, need comprehensive and sustained efforts to ensure that women and girls are safe in their homes and their communities.

Commenting on the same, Chairperson under Child Rights at NGO Gender Coordination Network Mr. Edward Kantuseya voiced dissatisfaction and firmly denounced such instances of mistreatment.

He therefore appealed to the law enforcing agencies to hold perpetrators accountable and that justice is served swiftly and fairly.

“As NGOGCN, we are calling upon Malawi Police to hastily conclude such cases, present the suspects in court and impose stricter penalties”, lamented Kantuseya.

Moving forward, the Child rights Activist emphasized commitment to continue carrying out ongoing efforts in raising awareness within the community to fight against the abuses.

However, behind every life lost and every traumatized victim, there are urgent calls for action and interventions on the same that are not producing sufficient results. So how best should the country handle this problem?

Memory Chisenga is a renowned Emerging Human Rights Defender who believes that Malawi needs to seriously empower members of the community to reject all forms of abuse.

“Traditional Leaders and members of the community must be empowered to take proactive measures against abuse. With proper empowerment, addressing such cases will become easier, and ensuring the protection of children’s rights”, stressed Chisenga.

The strong voices that are clearly coming out from Human Rights Activists on abuses are: “stand up, speak out, and take bold steps to protect the lives and dignity of all women and girls. Enough is enough.! The time for change is now”.