Contribution of the ''16 Days of activism against GBV Campaign'' in fighting defilement: Case of area 25 Township

Abstract

At a time statistics from the Malawi Police Service (MPS) show an increasing trend of defilement cases despite numerous interventions countering with the vice, this study examined the contribution of the “16 Days of Activism against GBV” campaign in fighting defilement and ensuring positive peace in Area 25 Township, Lilongwe, Malawi. It endeavored to achieve the following objectives: i). Ascertain ways in which activities carried out under the “16 Days of Activism campaign are helping in fighting the crime of defilement in Area 25; and ii). Determine participants’ views on the significance of the contributions being made by the campaign in the fight against defilement and bringing peace. It is a qualitative study in which both primary and secondary data were collected and analyzed to inform findings. Primary data were collected through Key Informant Interviews with NGOs and government institutions that actively participate in the campaign and Focus Group Discussions were done with Block Leaders from Area 25 Township. Defilement statistics from Area 25 Township as captured by the Kanengo Police Station between 2017 and 2021 were analyzed as secondary data. The study was informed by Securitization Theory, Discourse Theory and Agenda Setting Theory. The study found that through raising awareness, the campaign is playing a very crucial role in fighting defilement and ensuring a peaceful Malawi for young girls as this allows action to be taken on the vice. Through the awareness, victims, witnesses and duty-bearers such as MPS, judiciary, NGOs, local leaders and parents are empowered to take action such as reporting and acting with speed and professionalism. The study also found that people consider the contributions being made by the campaign as very significant in the battle against defilement. However, the study identified the following challenges with the campaign: i). Receiving dutybearers such as MPS, judiciary and prison service are not well empowered to professionally handle the increasing numbers of cases of defilement, and ii). The period for the campaign is short. The study thus, recommends that: i). Authorities empower the MPS, judiciary and other duty-bearers to be able to effectively handle the increasing defilement cases, ii). Organizers of the campaign to extend the period of the campaign, and iii). Establish mechanisms for effective reformation of convicted defilers to prevent them committing same crimes when released.