Malawi is home to a strong network of groups working to protect children. Many children here still face poverty, child labour, early marriage and abuse. Child rights organisations in Malawi step in to close these gaps.

These groups run programmes on the ground. They also push for stronger laws and better services for children. Below is a list of some of the leading child rights organisations in Malawi making a real difference across the country.

1. Child Rights Information and Documentation Centre (CRIDOC)

CRIDOC is a Malawian non-profit that promotes children’s rights through information. It was founded in 2003 by a media professional and registered as an NGO in 2006.

CRIDOC collects and shares information on issues facing children, such as child labour, HIV and AIDS, and juvenile justice. It runs research, public awareness campaigns and advocacy events across Malawi. The organisation also documents cases and connects with national and international child rights networks.

Visit the CRIDOC homepage to learn more about its work, or read the FAQ page for common questions about the organisation.

2. Eye of the Child

Eye of the Child works to keep children safe from abuse, violence and neglect. The group is based in Lilongwe and works across many parts of Malawi.

Its teams tackle child trafficking, child marriage and child labour. They work with chiefs, schools, police and government offices to build stronger protection for children. Eye of the Child also runs rescue operations for children pulled out of early marriages, and offers counselling to help children recover.

3. Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO)

YONECO has worked in Malawi since 1997. It focuses on youth development, gender equality and children’s rights.

The organisation runs YONECO FM, a radio station that shares information on human rights and health. It also runs the Tithandizane helpline network, which includes a free Child Helpline (116) for children in danger or distress. YONECO reaches young people aged 10 to 29 with life skills training and support services.

4. Save the Children in Malawi

Save the Children runs a child protection programme across large parts of Malawi. The programme focuses on children at risk of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

The organisation is known for its work against child labour in tobacco farming. It also helps strengthen local systems that identify and support children who need protection. Save the Children works closely with government departments to build safer case management for vulnerable children.

5. Plan International Malawi

Plan International Malawi has worked in the country since 1994. It focuses on girls, young people and their communities.

The organisation supports three main areas: education, protection from violence, and access to health services. Plan International Malawi runs the Girls Takeover programme, which gives girls the chance to take on leadership roles for a day. Its long-term goal is to help girls and young women become leaders of change in their own communities.

6. Creative Centre for Community Mobilization (CRECCOM)

CRECCOM is a Malawian NGO based in Zomba, with over 30 years of experience. It manages a large portfolio of projects with the help of around 1,000 community volunteers.

CRECCOM has helped shape national policy, including Malawi’s plan of action against child labour. It also supports the creation of district committees on child protection and gender. Many of its projects work through schools and local leaders to bring lasting change at community level.

7. UNICEF Malawi

UNICEF Malawi supports the Malawian government in upholding children’s rights. It works on health, education, protection and social policy for children.

UNICEF Malawi backs local organisations and government bodies with funding, data and technical support. It also tracks how well Malawi is meeting its promises under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Its child protection work covers birth registration, violence prevention and support for children with disabilities.

Why These Child Rights Organisations in Malawi Matter

Each of these child rights organisations in Malawi plays a different part in protecting children. Some focus on rescue and direct support. Others focus on research, radio, or shaping national policy.

Working together, they build a safety net for children across the country. Their combined efforts help more Malawian children grow up safe, educated and heard.

How You Can Help

You do not need to work in development to support this cause. You can:

• Follow these organisations on social media and share their work.
• Report suspected child abuse or child labour to the police or a local child rights group.
• Donate to a group whose work matches your interests.
• Volunteer your time or skills, if the organisation has a volunteer programme.

CRIDOC welcomes support from individuals and partners who care about children’s rights in Malawi. Visit the CRIDOC donation page to find out how to give, and consider reaching out to any of the child rights organisations in Malawi listed above.