LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Mary Navicha, has expressed grave concern over the rising cases of child sexual abuse in Malawi, describing the situation as a national crisis that demands urgent and collective action.
Speaking in Parliament on April 8, 2026, the Minister said the increase in cases of defilement and abuse poses a serious threat to children’s safety, dignity, and future.
She noted that most perpetrators are not strangers, but family members, relatives, and trusted individuals, with many incidents occurring in homes and schools.
She highlighted the devastating effects of abuse on children, including trauma, depression, poor academic performance, and long-term mental health challenges.
The Minister warned that the impact extends into adulthood and undermines national development by contributing to poverty, inequality, and the spread of HIV and other diseases.
Citing recent cases from districts such as Zomba, Mchinji, Blantyre, Machinga, and Dedza, the Minister illustrated the severity of the problem, including incidents involving relatives, teachers, and community leaders.
She also noted that many cases go unreported due to fear, stigma, and threats.
In response, the Ministry has announced several measures. These include reviewing laws to impose stiffer penalties and proposing that child sexual abuse offences be non-bailable.
The Ministry is also strengthening coordination among police, social welfare, health, and education sectors through district-level response teams.
Additionally, nationwide awareness campaigns will be intensified, and reporting systems such as child helplines and school-based mechanisms will be strengthened to ensure cases are reported and handled promptly.
The government will also expand psychosocial, medical, and legal support for survivors, while improving child protection systems within communities.
The Minister further warned against parental neglect, citing concerns over children being left unsupervised or in the care of unverified individuals, including bicycle taxi operators.
She emphasized that such practices violate children’s rights and may attract legal consequences.
She called on all citizens to report suspected abuse through established channels, including Child Helpline 116, police victim support units, and social welfare offices, stressing that failure to report abuse is a criminal offence.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting children and urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure a safe and secure environment for every child in Malawi.
