Human rights activist fights human trafficking

Malawi: Human rights activist Kate Kujaliwa has launched a number of interventions to combat human trafficking in Malawi, which is prevalent in this country but is not widely reported because most people are unaware of what it is.

"Human traffickers aren't your usual suspects, dangerous-looking criminals," Kujaliwa explained. "Some are smart-looking, well-to-do people we admire and see."

She went on to say that they could be related or close friends, and could arrive with proposals for a better life or education, and they usually encourage victims not to tell others because doing so could jeopardise the operation's success.

Kujaliwa also stated that they thrive on secrecy, take advantage of victims' needs, and brainwash them into believing they have their best interests at heart.

She also stated that by using Netball tournaments, she was able to educate young people about the evils of human trafficking.

"We have been empowering the youths with knowledge on how to identify traffickers in order to save their lives and the lives of their loved ones," Kujaliwa said.

Commenting on the same issue, Salima District Social-Ware Officer Edgar Kasiyafumbi stated that communities must work together to eradicate the act at all costs.

He also stated that it is necessary to combat both domestic and international trafficking because it is evil and destructive.

"I personally believe that human trafficking is not only a sin but also evil, so we must work together to combat the vice," Kasiyafumbi said.

Kasiyafumbi also stated that there is a need to use various platforms to condemn the act, which often affects youths.