Rape in Malawi
Rape and sexual violence in Malawi
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- 5 chapters
Related on Lably
Through Consent, UNICEF and World Bank Group
Prevalence
Police data
In Q1 2020, 339 victims of sexual violence were reported to Malawi Police, constituting 17% of all cases; rape alone accounted for 1%. Between April and June 2020, 184 victims of sexual violence were reported (11% of total), with rape again making up about 1%.
Surveys and perception
A 2021 Demographic and Health Survey estimated that 11% of women aged 15–49 had experienced sexual violence in the past year. An Afrobarometer survey in April 2023 found that 44% of Malawians believe survivors of gender-based violence will be criticised or shamed by their community if they report.
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Causes and risk factors
Cultural norms and stigma contribute to under-reporting, with over 40% of survey respondents believing survivors are likely to face community shaming. Superstitious beliefs that defiling a minor brings luck or wealth have been linked to spikes in child rape.
Notable cases
- In January 2022, High Court Judge Vikochi Chima sentenced police officer Andrew Chagaga to 30 years’ imprisonment for raping a 17-year-old student in custody.
- In May 2024, financial constraints delayed the Independent Complaints Commission's probe into alleged group rape by officers in Msundwe, Lilongwe.
- In April 2025, a Lilongwe court sentenced a 20-year-old man to 18 years’ imprisonment for raping a student nurse at night.
Legal framework
Marital rape is not explicitly criminalised. The Child Protection Act 2010 sets the legal marriage age at 18 but lacks strong enforcement mechanisms.
Responses
UNICEF and UN Women support social-norms campaigns and community dialogues to reduce stigma and encourage reporting. The World Bank recommends integrated GBV data systems and expanded Victim Support Units across police stations.