When political violence is allowed to persist, it poses a huge threat to peace, democracy and development.

This threat often intensifies during elections, as political actors exploit existing inequalities and tensions, particularly among young people.

In areas where youth face high unemployment, limited educational opportunities and poverty, they are frequently targeted and manipulated to incite unrest.

Mangochi is one such area, often identified as a hotspot for political violence.

“The situation in our district is alarming,” Paul Lwanda, a youth leader from Traditional Authority (TA) Mponda in the lakeshore district, says, his voice filled with concern.

Paul’s observation reflects a broader pattern, whereby political actors deliberately recruit young people as foot soldiers during campaigns or confrontations.

This occurs not because young people are inherently violent, but because of the socio-economic challenges they face.

“When those in power arrive, they know exactly whom to approach. They offer money and promises. In a place like this, where poverty is widespread, it is easy to be swayed,” Paul explains.

However, he is not merely highlighting the problem; he is also contributing to the solution.

Paul has been participating in a capacity-building training programme on conflict management, designed to empower young people to resist political manipulation and become peacebuilders within their communities.

“We have learned a great deal. We now understand our role in reducing political violence and encouraging fellow young people to avoid being used by politicians for violent purposes,” he says with a sense of resolve.

The training focuses on non-violence, civic responsibility and the power of youth leadership.

For Paul and many others, it has inspired a change in mindset and a renewed sense of purpose.

“Now we plan to advocate within our communities. By sharing what we have learned, we hope to help reduce political violence and promote lasting peace,” he says.

To address the persistent issue of political violence during elections, the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (Csat) has launched a project to empower young people as peace advocates and active participants in Malawi’s democratic processes.

The project, titled ‘Strengthening the Meaningful Participation of Young People in Electoral Processes’, is being piloted in Mangochi, a district long associated with high levels of political unrest.

It is funded by the German Government through the Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations.

“Too often, politicians exploit young people as agents of violence. We are here to change that narrative,” Albert Lulaka, Csat’s project coordinator, says.

Running for eight months, the project targets three TAs in Mangochi: Mponda, Chowe