“There are many factors that influence a person’s power to choose, including hunger and poverty. As we launch this project, we must ask ourselves: what will we do differently to truly respond to the needs of the people? I look forward to seeing the results seven years from now. I am optimistic that the CHOICE Project will bring meaningful and lasting change to the lives of our communities,” Dr. Dan Namalika, Principal Secretary for Health, Malawi


On 23 April 2026, Oxfam in Southern Africa’s Malawi Programme officially launched the Global Affairs Canada–funded Comprehensive Health Options through Innovative Community Engagement (CHOICE) Project in Malawi. The launch brought together key stakeholders, development partners, and vibrant youth representatives to mark the start of an initiative aimed at transforming access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).


The CHOICE Project seeks to advance bodily autonomy, agency, and SRHR for people experiencing poverty, marginalisation, and vulnerability, particularly women, girls, and adolescents, in Lilongwe and Balaka districts.


“We believe that the CHOICE Project will help young people prevent teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections by promoting awareness and encouraging responsible decision-making. It will also strengthen community efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, creating a safer and more supportive environment for adolescents to protect their health and reach their full potential,” said Ellen Chimtemgo, Chairperson, Malili Youth Network, Lilongwe


A Platform for Youth Voices and Expert Dialogue
The launch created a dynamic platform for young people and experts to share experiences, insights, and updates on access to SRHR information and services. Stakeholders welcomed the project’s strategic focus on:
•    Reducing teenage pregnancies
•    Preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections
•    Empowering young people with knowledge and essential life skills


“The CHOICE Project is being launched at a pivotal moment. While Malawi has made commendable progress in addressing reproductive health challenges and HIV and AIDS, significant gaps remain, especially for women, girls, young people, and other marginalised groups. CHOICE is designed to complement national efforts by aligning with Malawi’s health priorities and promoting a rights-based, inclusive, and community-driven approach to SRHR programming,” Mr. Edwin Mpando, Interim Country Focal Point, Oxfam in Southern Africa Malawi Programme


Strengthening Policy and Community Commitment
The Malawi Parliamentary Women’s Caucus reaffirmed its commitment to advancing policies and interventions that protect and promote the rights of women and girls. Members emphasised that access to accurate information, quality health services, and supportive community structures is a fundamental right, not a privilege.


“As the Parliamentary Women’s Caucus, we will continue to support legislation and parliamentary oversight that strengthens sexual and reproductive health services, advocate for increased resource allocation to health and youth programmes, work to break harmful cultural and social barriers, and ensure accountability in the implementation of these critical initiatives,” said Hon. Mary Khembo, MP , Chairperson of the Parliamentary Women Caucus.


Adding to the discussion, Dr. Chimwemwe Thambo, Director of Health and Social Services at Balaka District Hospital, highlighted both progress and ongoing challenges. She noted that over 7,000 teenage pregnancies were recorded in 2024–2025 in Balaka district alone, with the number reducing to just over 5,000 in 2025–2026, a reminder of the urgency of sustained action and the potential for meaningful impact.

Watch the launch highlights here!
https://youtu.be/5jkDYWhfvQ8