As Malawi prepares to join the world in commemorating this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Women Lawyers Association of Malawi (WLAM) has called on women, children, and other vulnerable groups not to suffer in silence but to report any form of violence they experience.

Speaking after a student legal clinic held on Friday at Mikombe Community Day Secondary School in Thyolo, WLA Waging Justice for Women Fellow, Tonthozo Saukira, said many young people lack awareness about certain types of abuse, particularly psychological and economic violence, which are often overlooked but equally harmful.

“Most people think violence is only physical, yet psychological and economic abuses are also serious and common, especially in homes and schools,” said Saukira. “We are here to ensure that young people understand their rights and know where to report when such abuses happen.”

Saukira emphasized that WLA is working to empower students and communities with legal knowledge to help them identify and report different forms of gender-based violence.

“No one should die in silence. Everyone deserves protection under the law, and we want young people to be confident enough to speak out,” she added.

Deputy Head Teacher for Mikombe CDSS, Moses Malunga, commended WLAM for the initiative, noting that it will help students deal with abuse-related challenges that negatively impact their education.

“Some students go through difficult experiences at school and at home, which affect their performance,” said Malunga. “With this knowledge, they will be better equipped to handle such issues and seek help.”

His counterpart from Glorious Private High School, Jimmy Alexander, echoed the same sentiments, describing the legal clinic as a timely intervention that promotes students’ safety and confidence.

One of the students, Chisomo Namandwa, who serves as head boy at Mikombe CDSS, expressed gratitude for the program, saying it has inspired them to stay focused and responsible.

He said “We are thankful to WLA for coming to our school. The lessons have opened our eyes to the importance of reporting abuse and working hard to become reliable citizens of Malawi."

The Women Lawyers Association of Malawi has been conducting similar legal awareness clinics in 18 districts across the country as part of its mission to educate communities on human rights and various forms of gender-based violence, aiming to end the vice through knowledge and empowerment.