CEDEP Holds Public Lecture on Sexual Orientation in Lilongwe

From Left: Rev Dr. Vincent Chirwa, Enock Changamire & Habiba Osman during the panel discussion

On October 31st, the Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP) and Angaza Foundation organized a pivotal public lecture on sexual orientation at Edge Water Court in Lilongwe. The event, which began at 5:30 PM, was streamed live on Times Television and garnered over 20,000 views on the Times Facebook page.

Under the theme “Building Inclusive Public Services through Understanding of Sexual Orientation and Diversity,” the lecture aimed to promote inclusion and equitable access to public services for LGBTQI+ individuals. CEDEP’s Executive Director, Gift Trapence, delivered a powerful message highlighting the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ individuals, who are often treated as “second-class citizens.” This discrimination undermines their well-being and restricts their participation in significant developmental issues, particularly when the law does not recognize their rights.

Trapence noted that the public lecture served as an eye-opener for many attendees, emphasizing the urgent need for legal recognition of LGBTQI+ rights. He stated, “It becomes difficult for them to participate in society when they are not recognized by the law.” The discussions underscored the importance of understanding sexual orientation and diversity to foster a more inclusive society.

Adding to the conversation, Habiba Osman, Chief Executive Officer of the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC), emphasized the importance of popularizing the medical and scientific explanations of gender identity. She stated that this approach is essential to reducing stigma and discrimination, particularly given the considerable misinformation about the LGBTQI+ community based on cultural and religious beliefs. Habiba called for continuous dialogue and education to dismantle prejudice and foster acceptance within society, asserting that “true progress comes when everyone stands together, advocating for the rights of marginalized groups.”

The event sparked vital conversations about the necessity for inclusive public services and the legal recognition of LGBTQI+ rights. Gynecologist Professor Chisale Mphande, who led the lecture, highlighted that understanding sexual orientation is crucial for addressing health disparities and ensuring that LGBTQI+ individuals receive appropriate care.

The turnout and engagement during the lecture signify a growing awareness and willingness to confront these critical issues within Malawian society. As Trapence pointed out, “There have been a lot of misconceptions about the LGBTQI+ community, but education is key to changing attitudes.”

CEDEP continues to advocate for the recognition and rights of LGBTQI+ individuals, pushing for policies that ensure equity and inclusion in all aspects of public life. The organization remains committed to fostering dialogue and initiatives aimed at dismantling stigma and promoting acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.

you can watch the public lecture on Facebook Live | Facebook  Facebook Live | Facebook