Life Line Malawi is due to start engaging key stakeholders on advocacy and community mobilization on a lobby to decriminalize suicide in the country.
This follows current statistics of deaths which have reached 366 and majority being men with a total of 332 and women 34.
According to Henderson Mhango, Country Deputy Director of Lifeline ANPPCAN Malawi, the current statistics are alarming and call for a need for quick interventions.
‘’ Life International through its members across the global, launched decriminalization campaign on 23 October, 2023, where the first phase in African content will focus in two countries (Malawi and Nigeria). During the launch in London, African Region Chapter was represented by Lifeline International African Coordinator Professor Taiwo Lateef Sheikh who called on governments across the continent to accelerate progress, decriminalize suicide, and implement prevention measures, ‘’he said.
Mhango said until now, their belief is that taking such a path will improve crisis support services for individuals in distress through helplines and other community intervention.
Life Line ANPPCAN Malawi is a member of Lifeline International aimed to prevent suicide and increase awareness on mental health. Life International through its members across the global.