By Durell Namasani
Malawi’s government has raised an alarm over the escalating violence and murders of older citizens accused of witchcraft, labeling the practice an egregious breach of human rights that demands immediate intervention. During a stakeholder assembly in Mzimba, Local Government Minister Ben Phiri and Deputy Gender Minister Martha Mzomera Ngwira revealed that over 300 senior citizens have lost their lives to such mob justice since 2015. Disturbingly, the first four months of 2026 alone have already seen 11 fatalities.
Phiri identified Mzimba as a primary hotspot for these atrocities and underscored the necessity of reinforced law enforcement, comprehensive public sensitization, and unified community action to dismantle this harmful tradition. Echoing his sentiments, Ngwira reiterated the state’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding the welfare, dignity, and security of the elderly. She outlined plans to bolster social safety nets, intensify awareness drives, and weave elder care into district-level strategic planning.
Both ministers issued a fervent appeal to customary chiefs, local councilors, and grassroots leaders to join forces with the public in stamping out vigilante justice. They stressed that collective vigilance and shared responsibility are vital to shielding vulnerable older persons from persecution and ensuring they can live free from fear and discrimination.
