Fighting Intimate Partner Violence in Traditional Authority in Makwangwala, Ntcheu - Malawi

Men’s violence against women has been described as a world-wide epidemic that violates human rights and socio-economic development. Malawi is no exception as surveys show that 64% of women have suffered violence in intimate partner violence (IPV). In the Traditional Authority Makwangwala, harmful notions of masculinity, combined with unequal power-relations and alcohol abuse increase the risk of men using violence against women, especially in intimate partner relationships. The situation is also compounded by factors such as high levels of poverty and traditionally rigid gender roles. The project aims to reduce incidences of IPV in Traditional Authority Makwangwala by 40% by 2017. Taking a human rights-based approach the project will employ the following strategies: Increasing the commitment and capacity of men and boys to play a proactive role in preventing and eliminating Intimate Partner Violence and also education and training to empower women. The project will also engage members of a community with regards to initiatives aimed at challenging harmful beliefs and practices such as beer drinking culture and accepting Intimate Partner Violence as normal in marriage. Furthermore, the aim is to raise public awareness about the nature and extent of Intimate Partner Violence in Ntcheu among women, girls, boys and men, its impact on family and community, and the role of various grassroots institutions such as Community Action Groups, Community Based Organizations, Communities, school authorities, traditional leaders and religious leaders in reducing this impact. Finally the aim is to fully train stakeholders in how to prevent and reduce Intimate Partner Violence, alcohol abuse and to implement preventive strategies within key institutions by 2017.