Opening Doors: Malawi

In Malawi, a transformative project is underway to address several of the UN SDGs and promote education, empowerment, and gender equality. The initiative aims to combat the prevalent issue of child marriage, which is highly prevalent in Malawi, particularly in rural areas, with rates ranging from 40-50%. Child marriage not only denies girls their education and future prospects but also exposes them to various forms of abuse, early pregnancy, and health risks. While child marriage has been made illegal in Malawi, implementation remains a challenge due to poverty and entrenched customs. The project, which is funded by Soroptimist International Taiwan, and delivered by the Amitofo Care Centre (ACC), is working towards providing education and support to 150 local women who were child brides, with 10 of them receiving a 2-year educational bursary covering all expenses. The project aims to transform their attitudes towards education, enhance their skills, empower them, and open up better opportunities for employment and improved livelihoods.