The Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu  has spoken against continued incidences of child marriage and gender based violence in the country.

Father Thomas Puya of St Thomas Parish made the call as the church joined the International Women’s Day commemoration on March 8, 2020.

Father Puya said it is the church’s responsibility to raise awareness on issues affecting women and their rights.

“People should get empowered on how they can take care of the girls so that the situation does not worsen,” he said.

Father Puya added that the church empowers women through education and different ways so that they can realize their aspirations.

Chairperson for the organizing committee Era Mithi, said Women’s International Day is very crucial to everyone as it gives women an opportunity to express themselves on issues affecting them.

The day was commemorated under the theme “I’m a generation with equality, realizing women’s rights”.