Machinga, Malawi – 21 June 2026
The Malawi National Association of the Deaf (MANAD) has strengthened its commitment to safeguarding and promoting a safe, inclusive environment by conducting a refresher training on Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for members of its Disciplinary Committee.
The one-day training, held on 21 June 2026, brought together seven members of the MANAD Disciplinary Committee to enhance their knowledge and capacity to effectively address safeguarding, gender, and protection issues within the association. The sessions were facilitated by experts from the Gender Office and the Victim Support Unit of the Machinga District Council, who shared practical experience and best practices in handling gender and protection-related cases.
The MANAD Disciplinary Committee was established by the National Executive Council in 2015, with its term of office aligned to that of the National Executive Council. The committee is mandated to ensure that members conduct themselves and carry out the affairs of the association in accordance with the MANAD Constitution and organizational policies. It also serves as an independent mechanism for receiving complaints, conducting investigations, and recommending appropriate disciplinary action in cases of misconduct. Through these responsibilities, the committee plays a vital role in upholding MANAD’s integrity, accountability, and positive public image.
Beyond its disciplinary responsibilities, the committee provides strategic guidance on gender equality, safeguarding, the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, and gender-based violence. It advises the National Executive Council, women, youth, and the broader MANAD membership on creating and maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where everyone can participate fully in organizational activities, advocacy initiatives, elections, leadership processes, and community engagement without fear of discrimination, abuse, or harassment.
The refresher training brought together committee members from across Malawi, reflecting MANAD’s nationwide reach and commitment to strengthening governance structures at both national and regional levels. Participants included Fanny Singini from Mzimba in the Northern Region; Charles Mtambo from Lilongwe and Tamandani Baira from Nkhotakota in the Central Region; and Stephano Maneya from Phalombe, Byson Chimenya, Malonje Phiri, and Edna Makonyola from Blantyre in the Southern Region.
By investing in continuous capacity building for its governance structures, MANAD continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding, accountability, gender equality, and the protection of the rights and dignity of Deaf people throughout Malawi.
