Evidence for Change Solution (E4C) says has unveiled to roll out a gender-based violence (GBV) awareness campaign in communities surrounding Songwe Border Post in Karonga ahead of the start of construction works for Songwe One Stop Border Post (OSBP). 

Speaking in an interview on Thursday, E4C communication consultant Andrew Massa said construction projects have a positive impact on the social life of communities surrounding the project sites.

“We are going to use multiple communication channels, including road shows and drama to sensitise communities surrounding Songwe Border Post about issues that may arise in the course of the project.

“We are hopeful that the campaign will help the communities to identify, respond and prevent GBV and other issues,” he said.

Massa said E4C has implemented similar campaigns at the Dedza and Mwanza OSBPs.

Common issues encountered include sexual harassment at the construction sites and construction workers impregnating young girls in the areas near the project site.

Karonga district gender officer Ireen Mwenelupembe described the sensitisation campaign as a crucial intervention, saying it will empower communities to detect, prevent and respond to GBV.

“We are happy because the sensitisation campaign is targeting an area of over 50 kilometres radius. This is giving us hope that GBV cases are likely to drop in the district,” she said.

Construction of the Songwe OSBP is being funded by the World Bank.

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