The President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, recently ascended the Domestic Violence Bill into law. By this action, she affirmed her commitment to protect women rights and promote the empowerment of women in the country. In her announcement, President Banda expressed sadness that violence against women and children is still on the rise and called for a holistic approach towards efforts and programs that improve the status of women.
President Banda appealed to traditional chiefs, faith leaders, and all civic leaders to pay more attention in sensitizing society about disadvantages of cultural and traditional practices which oppress women.