The participants pose for a group photo
A total of 203 gender-based violence (GBV) cases have been resolved by Women and Girls’ Clubs and Area Peace and Unity Committees (APUCs) in Thyolo District between 2024 and April 2026.
This was revealed during a training workshop for peace structures in Thyolo organized by CCDO, where stakeholders gathered to strengthen community-led responses to conflict and violence.
The cases were recorded across five Traditional Authorities—Bvumbwe, Changata, Nchiramwela, Maganiza and Maggie—with domestic violence (82 cases) identified as the most prevalent.
At the inception of the project, Chipembere Community Development Organization (CCDO) strengthened community response mechanisms by building the capacity of 97 girls from five clubs, 30 women group members, and 55 APUC representatives in mediation, advocacy, peacebuilding, conflict management and leadership.
Speaking during the workshop, Thyolo District Principal Gender Officer Gerald Zgambo commended the initiative, noting that it has contributed to peace and stability in communities.
“We thank CCDO for supporting this peace-building initiative, as it has reduced conflicts in our communities. We have seen a shift where people are now more willing to report cases early and resolve them locally through structured dialogue rather than letting them escalate,” said Zgambo.
Thyolo District Peace and Unity Committee chairperson Martin Kavalo said the project has enhanced coexistence among community members.
“The project has equipped communities with practical skills to manage conflicts. As it is phasing out, we are committed to sustaining the gains,” he said.
CCDO Executive Director Dalitso Chiwayula said the training aimed to reinforce conflict resolution skills at community level.
“There are many cases in Thyolo, particularly land and family disputes, that often lead to conflict. This initiative has empowered communities to resolve such issues before they increase,” he said.
A participant, Chisomo Mphalasa from Maganiza Youth Club, described the training as transformative.
“We are now able to follow up and resolve disputes transparently while advocating for peace,” she said.
The two-year Progressive Peace Building and Conflict Prevention Project (2024–2026) is funded by the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund through UN Women.
Participants follow the sessions
Zgambo- facilitates one of the sessions during the training workshop