Government has awarded certificates of approval to four non-governmental organizations to operate designated safe places for survivors of trafficking in persons.

Youth Net and Counselling (Yoneco), Love Justice Malawi, Gateway Hope and Salvation Army have become the first in the history of Malawi to receive the licenses of approval at a ceremony at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.

Speaking at the ceremony, Homeland Security minister Richard Chimwendo Banda and Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare minister Patricia Kaliati applauded Yoneco for a commendable work in ensuring safety of victims of trafficking in persons.

Yoneco Executive Director MacBain Mkandawire said the move will help to spearhead operations aimed at ensuring safety of survivors of trafficking in persons.

Yoneco Board chairperson Professor Dixie Maluwa Banda also attended the ceremony.