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Malawi

Religious  context 

Major faith groups:

 

  • Protestant 27.2% (includes Church of Central Africa Presbyterian 17.7%, Seventh Day Adventist/Baptist 6.9%, Anglican 2.6%)

  • Catholic (18.4%)

  • Other Christian (41%)

  • Muslim (12.1%)

  • Other (0.3%)

  • None (1%)

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In addition there are 15 ethnic groups in the country, each with their own customs and traditions.

 

Malawian society is characterized by the coexistence between strong and sometimes harmful traditional beliefs and cultural practices and religions.

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  • Malawi Vision 20:20 states that Malawi is a God-Fearing Country 

  • Religious leaders in the country shape the opinion and attitudes of many Malawians and faith leaders impact the politics of the country.

Key
Implementing
Partners 

Main Faith-Based Organization Partners: Malawi Interfaith Aids Association

 

Since 2009, UNICEF has engaged with Malawi Interfaith Aids Agency with emphasis on

  • HIV and AIDS Prevention for the Faith Community through Effective Communication and defined the role of religious leaders in addressing (1) Accelerated Child Survival and development, (2) PMTCT and (3) Water and Sanitation. 

  • Integration of Child Protection Module in Theological Institutions (FBO), developing and consolidation CP messages to be used by media and faith institution, Development of CP Manuals and orientation of faith Media and Lectures from Theological Institutions.

  • UNICEF MCO is also working with the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of Central African Presbyterian (CCAP) and the Muslim Association of Malawi to highlight their activities towards ending child marriage using a partnership with a local media organisation. 

 

Main government Affiliates:

Ministry Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare; Ministries of Health, Education, Information, and Civic Education. 

Priorities: Child Protection; Education; Gender Equality; Health; HIV and AIDS; WASH

 

Social and Behavioural Change Expected:

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  • Reduce early marriages among the critical 10-14 age group and advocate for implementation of ending child marriages

  • Keep girls in school, especially during the critical 10-14 age group

  • Reduce violence against children of all forms.

  • Increase knowledge and skills to address child protection issues among FBOs. 

Main 
Initiatives

Malawi Case Study - draft

Malawi SBCC presentation

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