Rape in Malawi is defined under the Penal Code as non-consensual carnal knowledge or sexual assault, punishable by up to 20 yearsâ imprisonment and, in certain circumstances, life imprisonment or death.
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 %.
A 2021 Demographic and Health Survey estimated that 11 % of women aged 15âÂÂ49 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.
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.
Marital rape is not explicitly criminalised. The Child Protection Act 2010 sets the legal marriage age at 18 but lacks strong enforcement mechanisms.
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.