Traditional leaders urged to act on rape cases

Network for Youth Development (NfYD) has challenged traditional leaders in Lilongwe to be proactive in dealing with cases of rape, defilement and sexual harassment.

Speaking at Mpingu Trading Centre on Monday, NfYD programmes manager Lidace Nyirenda said rape cases are on the rise in the country; hence there is need for traditional leaders to ensure that they are reported to relevant authorities for action.

“As a society, we need to join hands and guard against the malpractice. Traditional leaders have a role to ensure that communities are sensitised on the impact of rape cases in their areas and on the future of the affected girls,” she said.  

Nyirenda said community mother groups also need to counsel and empower girls to report any cases of sexual violence and harassment to authorities.

She said: “Youth clubs and organisations here should conduct awareness meetings to help the girls to understand the social setups affecting them within their communities.”

Lilongwe district youth officer Joseph Manthalu said youths need to make use of their clubs to be empowered and know their rights.

He said it is only youths that are aware of their rights who would ably report any violations to authorities.

“Youth clubs have a great responsibility of ensuring that rape cases are reported and that culprits face the law,” said Manthalu.