National Children’s Commission of Malawi

13/04/2026

We join the nation in mourning the loss of Thandi Mbogha, a passionate young leader who stood boldly for the rights and wellbeing of children.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss.

May her soul rest in peace 🕊️

07/04/2026

The National Children’s Commission (NCC) has, over the past three days, been in Zomba observing court proceedings at the Zomba Magistrates Court where Traditional Authority Malemia, accused, is answering charges of ;

• Having sexual in*******se with a child contrary to Section 138 of the Penal Code of Malawi.
• Procuring an abortion of a child contrary to Section 149 of the Penal Code of Malawi.

Following the presentation of evidence by the prosecution, the court has ruled that the accused has A CASE TO ANSWER on both charges .

This ruling means that the court has determined that sufficient evidence has been presented for the matter to proceed to the defence stage, where the accused will be required to respond to the charges.

As the National Children’s Commission, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the rights of every child. We will continue to closely monitor this case and keep the public informed as proceedings progress.

The hearing has been adjourned to 21st April 2026.

05/04/2026

Happy Easter. Together, let’s continue to stand for our children because their future is our responsibility.

09/03/2026

The National Children’s Commission( NCC) today attended the presentation of the 2026/27 Child Friendly Budget Analysis by the NGO Coalition on Child Rights in Lilongwe.

Speaking during the engagement, NCC’s Vice Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe emphasized that a national budget reflects the country’s priorities and called for stronger investment in children, reminding policymakers that children must not be left behind in decisions that shape Malawi’s future.

The session highlighted key recommendations from civil society on strengthening financing in child sensitive sectors including education, early childhood development, gender, disability, WASH and social protection. On the other hand, Co - Chair persons of the Parliamentary Cluster Committee on Social and Community Affairs Hon Savel Kafwafwa MP and Hon Edward Chileka Banda (MP) commended stakeholders for their continued commitment to child rights advocacy and encouraged analysis of clear gaps in funding for children and development of standards to strengthen advocacy efforts in the country.

Meanwhile, UNICEF Malawi reaffirmed the commitment made by the State President during the State of the Nation Address, calling for the strengthening of the National Children’s Commission (NCC) as the lead national coordinator for child rights, while also noting the increased allocation to the Commission in the proposed national budget.

07/03/2026

The National Children’s Commission (NCC) today attended an engagement organized by the Malawi Human Rights Commission on efforts to address corporal punishment and strengthen the protection of children’s rights.

07/03/2026

The National Children’s Commission today participated in a Child-Led Budget Analysis Engagement with the Parliamentary Cluster Committee on Social and Community Affairs held at Crossroads Hotel.

Members of the National Children’s Alliance presented their analysis of the 2026/2027 National Budget, focusing on key sectors affecting children’s wellbeing including education, health, water and sanitation (WASH), and child protection.

Members of the Parliamentary Cluster Committee led by Chairperson of the committee @ Hon Savel kafwafwa MP, welcomed the initiative and commended the children for their confidence and thoughtful analysis. The Committee assured the children that their concerns have been heard and will be shared with the relevant authorities.

Commissioner Milanzi of NCC emphasized that meaningful child participation strengthens governance and accountability.

05/03/2026

The National Children’s Commission (NCC) today presented its 2025/2026 budget performance and 2026/2027 plans to the Parliamentary Cluster Committee on Social and Community Affairs.

Since becoming operational in September 2024, the Commission shared that the following are some of its achievements;

- Engaged local councils,
- Disseminated the NCC Act of 2019 and Guidelines for co-opting Child Commissioners.
- ⁠Addressed child protection issues including child involvement in artisanal mining.
- ⁠Selected Child Commissioners.

The Committee commended the progress and encouraged greater visibility of the Commissions work , while the Commission commended the 100% budget increase towards protection and promotion of children’s rights in Malawi.

26/02/2026

Parliamentary Orientation on Child Rights, Child-Friendly Budgeting, and Child Participation

Yesterday, the National Children’s Commission represented by Commissioner Julia Chimuna and Commissioner Lyka Milanzi had the honor of participating in the Orientation of the Parliamentary Cluster Committee on Social and Community Affairs and Local Authorities at Sunbird Capital, Lilongwe. The session focused on child rights governance, child-friendly budgeting, and child participation.

The orientation aimed to equip Members of Parliament with the knowledge and tools to:
✅ Uphold and protect the rights of children in Malawi.
✅ Ensure that national and local budgets respond to the needs of our youngest citizens.
✅ Promote meaningful engagement between children, civil society, and duty bearers.

Key highlights from the session included:
• Child Rights and State Obligations: Understanding the UNCRC and aligning national policies with international standards.
• Child-Focused Financing and Oversight: Emphasizing transparency, equity, and accountability in resource allocation for education, health, nutrition, and protection.
• Child Participation: Encouraging the inclusion of children in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Discussing gaps in ECD funding, infrastructure constraints, and the role of communities in supporting child development.
• Identifying Champions for Child Rights: Inspiring MPs to actively advocate for children both in Parliament and in their constituencies.

It was inspiring to witness the passion and commitment of parliamentarians as they reflected on their role in shaping a future where children are protected, empowered, and prioritized. As highlighted by Grace Mganga from the EU, the decisions we make today shape the tomorrow of our children and our nation.

The National Children’s Commission remains committed to supporting initiatives that advance child rights, inclusive governance, and child-friendly budgeting across Malawi.

16/01/2026

Ministerial Briefing Meeting at the Ministry of Gender

On 08th January 2026, the National Children’s Commission held a briefing meeting with the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Affairs, Hon. Mary Navicha , and Deputy Minister, Hon. Martha Mzomera Ngwira. The meeting provided an opportunity for the Commission to present an overview of its establishment, constitutional mandate, powers, and its unique role in promoting and protecting the rights and welfare of children in Malawi.

During the briefing, the Commission highlighted its key functions, notable achievements, and challenges encountered in the ex*****on of its mandate. The engagement was highly interactive, with the Honourable Minister offering constructive feedback and engaging in a plenary discussion on strengthening collaboration and enhancing the Commission’s contribution towards advancing the best interests of the child.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Ministry and the National Children’s Commission to work collaboratively in ensuring that children’s rights are prioritized in policy, programming, and service delivery across Malawi.

10/12/2025

10/12/2025

The National Children’s Commission (NCC) joins Malawi and the global community in commemorating Human Rights Day 2025 under the theme “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials.”

This theme reminds us that human rights are not abstract ideals they are the basic necessities every person needs to live with dignity. For children, these essentials include protection, education, healthcare, nutrition, safety, love, and opportunities to grow. When even one of these is missing, a child’s rights and future are at risk.

At the NCC, we remain committed to ensuring that every child in Malawi has access to the essentials that allow them to survive, thrive, and reach their full potential. Together with government, partners, and communities, we continue to champion systems and policies that put children first.

Let us all reaffirm our responsibility to protect children’s rights every day, everywhere.

Our Children, Our Responsibility.