By Chisomo Sezi
The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has called for intensified efforts in raising awareness and sensitizing the public on laws and policies regarding HIV and AIDS, to address widespread discrimination against people living with the disease in Malawi.
Participants during the meeting PIC Chisomo Sezi
MHRC’s Principal Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Officer, Jim Kaunda, made this appeal during an engagement meeting held in Mzimba with key stakeholders with an aim to raise awareness about legal frameworks aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination based on HIV/AIDS status.
Kaunda emphasized that a lack of comprehensive public understanding of new HIV/AIDS laws and policies contributes to ongoing violations of human rights in the country, particularly against individuals living with the virus.
"Rights of people living with HIV and AIDS are being violated due to inadequate awareness campaigns. The government has enacted strong laws and policies, but the challenge remains a lack of public understanding," said Kaunda.
He urged the government and stakeholders to allocate more resources towards education and awareness campaigns if Malawi is to effectively tackle discrimination and human rights abuses.
Speaking to represent the faith-based community at the meeting, Reverend Matthews Khondowe, commended the awareness session for providing much-needed clarity on the laws governing HIV/AIDS in Malawi.
"We now have a clearer understanding of the laws and policies concerning people with HIV/AIDS, and we, as religious leaders, understand our role in ensuring the rights of those living with the disease are protected," Rev. Khondowe noted.
He further appealed to religious leaders to embrace compassion, urging them not to deny their followers access to life-saving treatments like antiretroviral therapy (ARVs).
Key laws and policies discussed during the session included the HIV and AIDS Prevention and Management Act of 2018, the National HIV/AIDS Policy, and the National HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including faith leaders, traditional authorities, healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, and government representatives.
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