Following the murder of two female physicians in Malawi, the NGO Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN) has demanded more steps to safeguard women from violence. KHUMBO MSAMBAL SALANJE of Malawi News Agency writes
The NGO Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN) has urged for enhanced measures to safeguard women from violence after the homicide of Dr. Favour Atughanile Chomo
The network says the killing of Chomo, a medical doctor at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, underscores the increasing risks faced by women professionals in Malawi.
In a statement issued by board chairperson Maggie Kathewera Banda said the killing of Dr. Chomo, which occurred just eight months after the murder of another Blantyre-based gynaecologist Dr. Victoria Bobe, highlights the imperative for immediate action against violence directed at women.
NGO-GCN has since called on government to treat femicide and gender-based violence as a national emergency while urging authorities to ensure thorough and transparent investigations into such cases.
The organisation also called for speedy handling of gender-based violence cases by the Judiciary, stronger legal protection for women and increased involvement of traditional leaders, religious institutions, men, the media and civil society in preventing violence.
"We call for renewed solidarity and coordinated action to ensure that no more women die at the hands of violence and that every woman in Malawi can live, work and sleep in her own home without fear," said Banda.
The call comes after the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare condemned Dr. Chomo’s killing, describing it as a major loss to her family, the medical profession and the country.
Secretary for Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Esmie Tamanda Kainja said the incident was a setback to efforts aimed at promoting girls’ education and empowering women, noting that female professionals such as Dr. Chomo serve as an inspiration to young girls.
Kainja commended the Malawi Police Service for its response but urged investigators to conclude the case quickly, saying government expects the maximum penalty under the law if the suspect is convicted.