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With hearts full of hope and a shared mission to end human trafficking, Talitha Kum Network Malawi (TAKUNEMA) marked a powerful milestone with its first diocesan sensitization and launch event in Dedza Diocese. Held at the Pastoral Centre under the warm support of Bishop Peter Chifukwa represented on the day by the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. John Chithonje. The event brought together 95 participants, each one a crucial thread in the growing network of solidarity and action.
Among the dignitaries were representatives from the Malawi Police Service, Malawi Prison Service, the Department of Social Welfare, clergy, religious men and women, youth leaders, and lay faithful. Their presence sent a clear message: the fight against human trafficking is a collective effort and the Church is rising to meet this urgent call.
Sr. Delia Alfandega, the National Coordinator for TAKUNEMA, opened the day with an inspiring presentation on the origins and mission of Talitha Kum. Drawing from the Gospel of Mark 5:41—“Talitha Kum” (Little girl, I say to you, arise)—she reminded the audience of the spiritual and moral importance to uplift the vulnerable and restore dignity where it has been stolen.
Sr. Delia shared how TAKUNEMA, born out of the Association of Women Religious Institutes in Malawi (AWRIM), became part of the global Talitha Kum movement and was launched at the national level in February 2025 in Lilongwe. She spoke with conviction about the harsh realities of human trafficking in Malawi, a country that tragically serves as a place of origin, transit and destination for trafficked persons.
“Many people are unaware or in denial of this crisis,” she said. “We must awaken their awareness, empower communities with knowledge and walk in solidarity with survivors.”
TAKUNEMA’s mission is clear: to prevent trafficking through education, awareness and to restore hope and dignity to survivors. Collaboration is key and Sr. Delia emphasized the importance of partnerships with law enforcement, government departments and local communities.
Rev. Fr. Gerard Bwemba also challenged participants to confront societal norms that leave women and children especially vulnerable.
“Gender discrimination, poverty and lack of education open the door to exploitation. We must be bold enough to close that door and say, Enough is enough. Not on our watch.’’
The event concluded in a Eucharistic celebration, a moment of prayer and unity that rooted the day’s message in faith. Rev. Fr. Chithonje reminded all present that the Church is often their only refuge and it must remain a beacon of hope and healing. The launch in Dedza marks the beginning of a new chapter in TAKUNEMA’s journey—a chapter where more dioceses, more communities and more hearts awaken to the call to rise against trafficking.
As Sr. Delia reminded everyone: “We are not powerless. We are a people of faith. And together, we will say to every girl, every boy, every person trapped in exploitation—Arise. You are not alone.”
