The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Charles Mhango, today held a bilateral meeting in Lilongwe with a delegation from the International Justice Mission (IJM), where he reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening access to justice and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
The meeting brought together key justice sector officials, including the Solicitor General and Secretary for Justice, Gertrude Hiwa.
In his remarks, Mhango described IJM as a vital partner in advancing justice, particularly for women and children. He emphasised government’s resolve to eliminate all forms of violence against vulnerable groups, noting Malawi’s continued adherence to international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
Highlighting progress, the minister pointed to initiatives such as mobile courts, One Stop Centres, and Victim Support Units, which have expanded access to justice nationwide.
However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, including gaps in institutional capacity, coordination, and resources, as well as the ongoing prevalence of physical, sexual, and psychological violence against women and girls.
Mhango stressed the importance of strengthened collaboration among stakeholders and greater investment in survivor-centred services.
“Enhancing collaboration within government structures, especially with the Ministry of Gender and the Malawi Police Service, will promote easier access to justice for both women and children,” he said.
He commended IJM’s efforts, noting that the meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on findings and identify practical actions to strengthen the justice system.
The government, he added, remains committed to ensuring that every woman and child in Malawi lives in a safe, protected, and dignified environment.
Speaking after the meeting, Simon Manning, IJM’s Chief Programmes Officer, pledged the organisation’s continued support for Malawi’s justice system.
“We will bring in a number of interventions, though it will take time to develop a comprehensive strategy. In particular, we will adopt a ‘Trauma-Informed Approach to Justice,’ ensuring that women and children who have suffered crimes can access justice services in the most appropriate way,” Manning said.
The IJM is a global non-governmental organisation founded in 1997 to protect vulnerable people from violence, slavery, and exploitation.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., IJM partners with local justice systems across Africa, Asia, and Latin America to strengthen law enforcement and ensure lasting protection. Their work includes rescuing victims of sex trafficking, forced labour, and cyber exploitation, while providing survivors with rehabilitation and support.
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