Nyale vows to continue fight for safe abortion in Malawi

A Malawian reproductive health organisation has pledged to continue campaigning for access to safe and lawful abortion, a year after a High Court ruling involving a girl who became pregnant through sexual violence.

Nyale Institute for Sexual and Reproductive Health Governance Executive Director Dr Godfrey Kangaude said the judgment had helped bring abortion into public discussion in a country where the issue has often been discussed in hushed tones.

The ruling, delivered on 28 October 2025, concerned a minor who was denied a termination of pregnancy after becoming pregnant through sexual violence.

The High Court ruled that she was entitled to a lawful abortion under the Gender Equality Act and related laws.

In a statement marking the anniversary, Kangaude said the organisation would continue advocating for access to safe abortion services.

He said the case had also highlighted challenges faced by healthcare providers seeking to offer lawful abortion services while navigating criminal law provisions and concerns about personal and professional conscience.

“Although Malawians may have different views on abortion, this should not result in any voice being suppressed or rights being disregarded,” the statement read.

Abortion remains a sensitive issue in Malawi, where debates over reproductive rights, access to healthcare and the legal framework continue to shape discussions about the services available to women and girls.