Lilongwe, Malawi – The Malawi government launched the Malawi Civic Space Dialogue on Friday, August 23, 2024, in Lilongwe. This new platform is designed to encourage open discussions on pressing issues impacting both the nation and the wider African continent.
Speaking at the event in Lilongwe, Minister of Information and Digitalisation Moses Kunkuyu emphasized the crucial role of civil society in advocating for and facilitating the expansion of civic space. He commended the Malawi judiciary for its independence and role in safeguarding civic freedoms.
“Through collaboration with government and development partners, civil society in Malawi continues to advocate and facilitate the opening and expansion of the civic space,” Minister Kunkuyu said. “This is the arena where individuals and groups come together to express their opinions, influence governance, and contribute to the development of their communities.”
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda echoed the minister’s sentiments, praising the Malawi judiciary for its commitment to the rule of law and human rights. He urged all stakeholders to ensure the continued independence of the judiciary.
Charles Kajoloweka, Director of Youth and Society, highlighted the significance of the dialogue in creating a platform for engagement between civil society and the three arms of government. “We believe that by working together, we can address most of the concerns that civil society continues to raise,” he said.
The dialogue aims to assess Malawi’s progress in entrenching and promoting civic space, identify challenges, and exchange ideas on how to address them.
