NKHATA BAY-(MaraviPost)-The Waterboard Ground in Nkhata Bay came alive on Wednesday as the Second Vice President, Enock Kanzingeni Chihana, led national commemorations for the 2025 International Human Rights Day, delivering a powerful call for unity, accountability and daily respect for human dignity.
Speaking on behalf of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, Chihana said this year’s theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” reminds Malawians that rights are not distant concepts but the very foundation of dignified living.
He noted that the commemoration coincides with the 77th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a global milestone born after World War II to safeguard the dignity and equality of all people.
As the world approaches the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals deadline and the United Nations marks 80 years of existence, Chihana said Malawi must reflect on its progress with sincerity.
The Second Vice President reaffirmed Malawi’s commitment to international treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
He highlighted laws like the Child Care, Protection and Justice Act, the Gender Equality Act and the Disability Act as the backbone of the country’s human rights protection framework.
Chihana applauded constitutional bodies including the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC), the Office of the Ombudsman and the Legal Aid Bureau for ensuring that rights enshrined in the Constitution are upheld.
He celebrated the MHRC’s A-status accreditation under the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, calling it proof of the Commission’s independence and professionalism.
As the event also marked the end of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Chihana reflected on continued human rights violations: violence against women and girls, HIV-related stigma, barriers faced by persons with disabilities and the corrosive impact of corruption.
He emphasized that this year’s theme means translating rights into everyday life—clean water, respectful health care, accessible education, functional justice systems and safe communities.
Using Nkhata Bay’s lakeshore communities as an example, he said government’s efforts must reach people where they live.
Chihana outlined six national priorities: strengthening health systems, expanding access to justice, protecting children from exploitation, promoting inclusion for persons with disabilities, advancing economic and social rights, and intensifying efforts to end gender-based violence.
He added transparency and accountability as essential pillars for ensuring public resources benefit intended communities.
The Vice President reaffirmed government’s commitment to adequately funding the Malawi Human Rights Commission, protecting its independence and enhancing collaboration with the Ombudsman and the Legal Aid Bureau.
He also thanked development partners including UNDP, Iceland and Norway for supporting the Commission and human rights initiatives.
He reminded the nation that defending human rights is a shared responsibility that begins in homes, schools, workplaces and communities.
He urged Malawians to stand against violence, oppression, discrimination and corruption while supporting survivors and respecting diversity.
Chihana concluded by assuring the nation that President Mutharika remains committed to strengthening institutions and partnerships that uphold human rights.
He praised civil society, faith leaders, media workers and traditional authorities for their continued role in advancing justice and dignity.
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