Kongwa combats child abuse through community partnerships

KONGWA: KONGWA District Council is planning a coordinated strategy to combat Gender Based Violence (GBV) and child abuse by bringing together government leaders, religious institutions and communities to strengthen protection for vulnerable groups.

District Commissioner, Ms Almishi Hazali, directed the council’s Executive Director to prepare the strategy with the participation of government leaders and representatives of all religious denominations.

“We need a clear strategy that brings together government leaders, religious institutions and communities to address violence against women and children and protect the rights of vulnerable groups,” Ms Hazali said.

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She issued the directive during a meeting of the district committee implementing the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children (MTAKUWWA), which reviewed progress during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, covering July to September.

“The strategy should address child labour and violence against women, while encouraging communities to take an active role in prevention,” Ms Hazali said.

She also called for stronger child protection desks at grassroots level to help safeguard children from abuse at home, in schools and elsewhere.

The DC emphasised the need for sustained public awareness campaigns, regular meetings and close monitoring of education initiatives aimed at preventing gender-based violence and child abuse.

“All schools should provide meals to pupils, this will improve children’s nutrition and overall wellbeing,” she said.

SOS Children’s representative, Ms Awaki Kibwana, said difficult household economic conditions were among the factors pushing some children into employment, with families relying on them to contribute to household income.

Ms Kibwana said child protection efforts should therefore address economic hardship alongside other measures to prevent exploitation and safeguard children’s rights and welfare.

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