By Burnett Munthali
Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO) Executive Director MacBain Mkandawire has criticized the Malawi Government for failing to prioritize the protection and welfare of children across the country.
Mkandawire voiced his concerns in Lilongwe on Friday during a two-day workshop for civil society organizations focusing on children’s rights and development.
He pointed out that the lack of child development officers in many districts is a glaring sign of the systemic neglect faced by Malawi’s most vulnerable population.
Mkandawire further highlighted that inadequate funding allocated toward child protection services reveals deep-rooted gaps in government commitment.
He warned that these shortcomings continue to expose children to various forms of abuse, exploitation, and neglect, with little to no intervention from authorities.
According to him, unless urgent action is taken, Malawi risks failing an entire generation of children who deserve protection, care, and opportunity.
However, Deputy Director for Children Affairs in the Ministry of Gender, Justin Hamela, responded to the concerns by insisting that government initiatives are moving in the right direction.
Hamela emphasized that efforts are being made to strengthen child protection frameworks, despite resource constraints.
He noted that the government is committed to improving the situation through policy reforms and enhanced collaboration with stakeholders.
The workshop brought together child-focused civil society organizations, offering a platform to reflect on progress and propose solutions ahead of the Day of the African Child.
This year’s Day of the African Child will be commemorated on June 16, 2025.
The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the 1976 Soweto uprising in South Africa and a call to action for African nations to prioritize children’s rights.
As the day approaches, child rights advocates are urging both government and society at large to intensify efforts in safeguarding children’s futures.
The ongoing debate underscores the urgent need for policy implementation, budgetary support, and community-driven solutions to address the many challenges facing children in Malawi today.
