Advocates in Malawi say stigma leaves many men suffering in silence, while women leaders support initiatives to improve men’s access to care.
Mental health advocates have called for increased support towards men’s mental wellbeing, saying stigma and cultural expectations continue to prevent many men in Malawi from seeking help.. Speaking in an interview, Jefferson Milanzi, executive director of Tibe Khonde Mental Health Initiative, said men’s mental health remains one of the most overlooked areas in community wellness programmes despite growing cases of emotional distress among men.. “Many men are suffering in silence because society has taught them
that expressing emotional pain is weakness.. Some end up battling depression, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts alone,” said Milanzi.. He said most mental health interventions have traditionally focused on women and children, leaving men with limited support systems and safe spaces to speak out.. According to Malawi Police Service figures, the country recorded 597 suicide cases in 2025, up from 527 in 2024, with men accounting for the majority of victims.. Milanzi commended women leaders
supporting men’s mental health initiatives, saying their involvement shows mental wellness is a shared responsibility.. Among those supporting the initiative are Jacqueline Bokosi, Tionge Mtambo and Sherifa Mia.. Bokosi said her passion for mental health advocacy comes from personal experience after losing her husband.. “When I lost my husband, I went through severe emotional distress.. The bank froze our accounts and I struggled to pay salaries and other business obligations.. I became deeply depressed and
at one point suicide seemed like the only option,” she said.. Bokosi said she later chose to accept the situation and rebuild her life.. “That experience taught me that depression is not the end of life.. With support and determination, people can overcome it,” she said.. She said CTS Courier and CTS Funeral Services will continue supporting Tibe Khonde Mental Health Initiative because men play a critical role in families and national development.. “Men are
the backbone of many families.. When their mental health is stable, they are able to lead well at home and contribute positively to the economy,” said Bokosi.. Mental health advocates urge government, companies and community leaders to invest more in mental health awareness, counselling services and workplace wellness programmes targeting men.
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