At ArtGlo, we believe that CSOs are more knowledgeable and well-placed to advocate and mobilize for change in their society, but most of them have limited capacity and skills to achieve the same. Through our three-year United Nations Trust Fund (UNTF) funded MAWA project, we have strengthened the capacity of 50 CSOs.
The goal of the MAWA (also translates to mean ‘tomorrow’ in Chichewa) project was to end violence against women and girls (VAWG) as well as improve their lives by challenging patriarchal social norms and mainstreaming women’s empowerment. During the National Event that was held on February 9, 2023, the CSOs shared lessons learned and recommendations with different partners that we work with.
“The MAWA project has brought many benefits to our respective districts. It has introduced us to the Human Centered Design (HCD) which has helped us to be more creative in addressing issues related to violence against women and girls.” Expressed Isaac, one of the CSO representatives.
Representatives of CSOs in the five implementation districts shared presentations and performed a number of Participatory arts. ArtGlo’s Board Chairperson, Dr. Galia Boneh, and Mulanje District Gender officer, Mr Jamu, also shared their remarks at the event.
Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Gender, Roselyn Makhumula commended the CSOs’ ability to establish new partnerships, and executive grant proposals, communicate and built networks for their projects effectively, and support women and girls in their communities through scholarships and business opportunities.
“I am impressed to learn that all the CSOs that participated in the project within these 3 years have grown so much in many ways. I have heard that they have strengthened their organizational systems. I have hope that even though the financial support has come to an end, the CSOs will continue supporting women and girls in their communities,” expressed Makhumula.
The function was also attended by our partners, Eastern Produce Malawi Limited’s Gender and Welfare Manager, Esther Mughogho as well as various media organizations. The MAWA project has worked with CSOs from Chikwawa, Mulanje, Phalombe, Chiradzulu, and Blantyre.
