MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice and MenEngage Malawi join the government and the people of Malawi in mourning the passing of Inkosi, also known as senior chief Theresa Kachindamoto of Dedza District, Malawi, a revered leader and champion for the rights of young girls.
This devastating loss will be felt across the Maseko Ngoni Clan, Dedza District, the entirety of Malawi, the region and the MenEngage Africa alliance. The senior chief and activist Kachindamoto was installed in 2003 and dedicated her life to ending practices such as child marriages in Malawi. In 2016, Al Jazeera reported that Chief Kachindamoto had broken up 850 child marriages in three years and banned the sexual initiation of young girls. Moreover, the chief ensured girls could access education. She provided all the necessary support for these rescued girls to attain education and live in safe spaces. Her contribution has left an indelible mark in advancing gender transformation.
“Inkosi Kachindamoto’s dedication to advancing the rights of young girls transcends the district that she led,” said Wells Munthali, Chairperson of MenEngage Malawi. “She was a relentless advocate for girls’ education and the end of child marriage, which is prevalent in Malawi.” Munthali adds.
Power To Youth Malawi is saddened by the demise of one of Malawi’s ambassador who has been working on ending child marriage. We commit to continuing her legacy of championing adolescent girls’ rights. “May her soul rest in eternal peace,” said Thandizo Mphwiyo, Power To Youth Coordinator, Malawi.
MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice would like to extend heartfelt condolences to her family, the people of Dedza, and all those whose lives were touched by her commitment to protecting the rights of girls and leadership. Her legacy lives on.
ENDS/
Issued by MenEngage Africa
For media enquiries contact:
Amukelani Chauke, Communications & Social Media Coordinator Manager, Sonke Gender Justice on amu@genderjustice.org.za or +27 74 857 4254
Milika Msiska, MenEngage Malawi Coordinator on Malawi@menengageafrica.org
Note to editors
MenEngage Africa is part of a global alliance of organisations that engage men and boys to achieve gender equality, promote health, reduce violence and question and address the structural barriers to achieving gender equality. The alliance consists of 23 country networks spread across East, West, Central and Southern Africa. MEA members work collectively toward advancing gender justice, human rights and social justice in key thematic areas, including Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender-based violence (GBV) & HIV prevention, Child Rights and Positive Parenting, and promoting peace on the continent.