SOGIE Curriculum Review Workshop

Last week, on June 19th and 20th, we held a productive two-day SOGIE Curriculum Review Workshop at Chiko Hotel in Mponela. This event was organized by CEDEP with funding from Global Fund through World Vision.

In collaboration with four key population-led organizations—Nyasa Rainbow, Gender Collective, Centre for Key Population Rights, and Optimum Foundation—the workshop brought together various stakeholders, including key population organizations, the Ministry of Health, and the National AIDS Commission (NAC). The aim was to review different SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) frameworks and adopt a unified curriculum for all organizations in Malawi. Our goal is to promote uniformity, shared understanding, and contextual relevance in how SOGIE issues are integrated across various programs and interventions.

Maria Ngulube, CEDEP Chief of Party and one of the facilitators, emphasized the importance of standardization, stating, “Using different SOGIE frameworks creates confusion and undermines our collective efforts in advocating for the rights of key populations.” She highlighted that a unified approach is essential for effective advocacy and meaningful community engagement.

A representative from NAC stressed the critical link between SOGIE and the fight against HIV, saying, “By standardizing our SOGIE frameworks, we can enhance our efforts in combating HIV. A cohesive approach will improve access to services and support for those most affected, ensuring that no one is left behind in our fight against this epidemic.”

We are excited about the potential outcomes of this collaboration and the positive impact it will have on our advocacy efforts!