Pakachere Institute for Health and Development Communication has reported significant success with their gender-based violence (GBV) and HIV/AIDS initiative in Makawa, Traditional Authority Mponda, Mangochi District.

At an Open Day held on Saturday at Makawa Primary School to promote awareness of GBV and HIV/AIDS, project officer Charles Yuma highlighted the program’s achievements. He noted that they have trained change agents to deliver GBV and HIV messages directly to households.

Yuma explained, “The project has tackled harmful cultural practices that contribute to GBV and has empowered victims to come forward and report abuse. Additionally, we have engaged men, as well as traditional and religious leaders, in combating GBV.”

He also mentioned efforts to encourage health-seeking behavior among men living with HIV and to support women affected by HIV through participation in village savings and loans (VSL) groups, fostering financial independence and resilience.

Mangochi District Assistant Gender Officer Lastone Chikopa praised the initiative as transformative, pointing out that GBV cases were previously high in Makawa due to exploitative practices by fishers.

Change agent Martha Kambalame committed to continuing GBV awareness efforts to help victims seek assistance from the proper authorities.

Community member Prisca Lumeta from Kela Village expressed relief at now knowing where to report GBV incidents.

Pakachere’s Gender and HIV/AIDS HeForShe Project is funded by UN Women.