LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi is said to have failed to prepare against effects of Covid-19 despite numerous studies that the global pandemic would escalates Gender Based Violence including rape, defilement, child marriage and among others.
The observation comes in the sidelines of this year’s 16 days of activism against GBV across the country amid Covid-19 spike.
Tithetse Nkhaza Team Leader Grace Malera told the community practice conference in the capital Lilongwe this week part Covid-19 has escalated GBV hence the need for better strategies to address the vice.
Malera observes that Covi-19 and GBV are twin pandemic needs overhaul approach unlike being passive.
She disclosed that Malawi government failed to have safety nets on young girls and women over Covid-19 despite predictions of the pandemic on communities.
Malera therefore appeals for proper coordination ahead of second wave coming of the pandemic as predicated by health experts.
Dr John Phuka, Presidential Task force on Covid-19 Chairperson echoed on the same that much effort is need in mitigating effects of Covid-19 on young girls and women in life circles.
Phuka however expressed worrisome over reckless approach on the pandemic predicting the second wave coming of the spike which might be terrific.
He therefore encourages the general public available preventive measures against Covid-19 while urging the country’s authorities to provide safety nets; family economic supports to women and young girls in mitigating GBV.
