Cultural Practices Hinder Children’s Mental Health Advocacy in Malawi, Says ACE Director
Alinafe CommsThe Alliance for Children Everywhere (ACE) Country Director Chisangalalo Ntonia has highlighted that Malawi is making slow progress in addressing children’s mental health issues, partly due to prevailing cultural practices.
Ntonia emphasized the urgent need for increased advocacy and concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including the government, to tackle this growing concern.
He made these remarks today, 12th June 2025 in Lilongwe during a Mental Health Workshop organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
“I can say we are making progress, but we are not yet there as a country,” Ntonia stated.
He has however highlighted the significant work still required to effectively address mental health challenges in children.
He says they plan to train teachers and other professionals on trauma and mental health to better equip them to support children facing such difficulties.
Meanwhile, Dr. Michael Udedi, Assistant Director of Curative Medical Rehabilitation Services in the Ministry of Health, revealed that a significant number of Malawians are grappling with mental health and psychosocial issues.
He pointed to an “aggravated situation of suicide,” evidenced by suicidal behaviors recorded between 2021 and 2025.
According to Dr. Udedi, Malawi registered 597 suicide cases between January and December 2024, mirroring the 597 cases recorded in 2023.
By Monica Chinyama Lipiya
