By Jones Gadama
The Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Hon. Mary Navicha, joined children, families and community leaders at Lunzu Primary School in Traditional Authority Kapeni, Blantyre, to commemorate the International Day of Families and Street-Connected Children in an atmosphere filled with music, dance and shared meals.
The day, observed globally to recognize the role of families in social development and to draw attention to children living and working on the streets, dates back to 1994 when the United Nations declared 15 May as International Day of Families. Malawi has since expanded the observance to also spotlight street-connected children, ensuring they are not left behind in national development conversations.
Minister Navicha moved through the school grounds without protocol, sitting on mats with children, sharing porridge and listening to their stories. She applauded the resilience of vulnerable families and reaffirmed government’s commitment under President Professor Peter Mutharika to protect every child’s right to care, education and dignity.
“This day reminds us that a strong nation is built on strong families. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Professor Peter Mutharika, government is working to ensure no child is left on the margins. We are strengthening social protection, skills training and family reintegration so that every child can dream again,” Navicha said. She urged communities to open their homes and hearts to children who have been disconnected from family life, noting that “compassion is the bridge that brings them back.”
Street-connected children who participated expressed gratitude. “We feel seen today. The minister sat with us and called us by our names. That alone gives us hope,” said 14-year-old Chikondi, who now attends a drop-in centre supported by the ministry.
The event featured drama by learners from Lunzu Primary, testimonies from foster parents, and counseling sessions. Ministry officials distributed school materials and hygiene kits.
Navicha concluded by calling on chiefs, churches and NGOs to work with government in tracing families and reintegrating children, saying Malawi’s future depends on families that love, protect and nurture.
