Our Core Programs
Through strategic advocacy, legal support, and community engagement, we work to protect and promote human rights for all Malawians.
Championing Equality & Inclusion
Discrimination against LGBTIQ people undermines the human rights principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. RACo is committed to advocating for the protection of LGBTIQ people from violence and discrimination while promoting their political participation and leadership in Malawi.
Core Legal Obligations We Advocate For:
Political Participation Program
Supporting LGBTIQ people's right to equality through strengthening democratic institutions and practices.
- Supporting governments and parliamentarians to enhance legislation
- Building collaborative relationships between decision-makers and NGOs
- Encouraging improved protection and elimination of discrimination
First Pride Parade
Historic event in Lilongwe, June 2021
National Coalition
Unified National Coalition launched 2026
Health Access
Improved HIV services through MoH collaboration
Community Equality Project (CEP)
Under CEP, RACo engaged stakeholders on an evidence-based approach to LGBTIQ issues, conducting groundbreaking research across all 25 districts of Malawi.
National Perceptions Survey
First ever conducted across all 25 districts of Malawi
Focus Group Discussions
Direct engagement with LGBTIQ community members
Policy & Law Gap Analysis
By multi-disciplinary practitioners
Roundtable Meetings
With CSOs, universities, researchers, and media
Social Media Outreach
In collaboration with advocacy partners to amplify voices and spread awareness
Prison Justice Initiatives
Vocational Training
Counseling
Restorative Justice
Reintegration
Transforming Prison Systems
The RACo Prison Justice Initiatives (PriJI) is dedicated to transforming Malawi's prison system for better rehabilitation and community integration. With PriJI, RACo provides vocational training, counseling, and restorative justice programs to inmates.
Reduce Recidivism
Through skills training and rehabilitation programs
Promote Social Responsibility
Building community ties and positive citizenship
Community Integration
Supporting successful reintegration into society
Our Prisoners' Rights Approach:
Protecting Human Rights Defenders
Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) supporting LGBTIQ+ rights in Malawi operate in a hostile environment. RACo supports HRDs in danger through the At LAW project.
Need Immediate Help?
Our emergency hotline is available around the clock
Emergency Support
24/7 hotline, temporary relocation to safe houses, immediate protection with HRDC Malawi
Legal Representation
Partnership with CHREAA for pro bono legal aid to activists facing detention
Digital Security
Encrypted communication tools, device security, and forensic support
Psychosocial Support
Funding for counseling and trauma care to manage stress from surveillance
African Commission Engagement
RACo actively engages with the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) to protect HRDs at the continental level. Our participation includes submitting formal complaints, providing shadow reports during state reviews, and advocating for observer status.
Access to Justice for All
RACo implements holistic and innovative crime prevention strategies and ensures that marginalized or disadvantaged individuals have access to legal representation, advice, and education, promoting equality and fairness.
88,445+
People Assisted
Inmates, suspects, accused persons, and other vulnerable community members assisted to access justice through:
Paralegal Desks
Community-based support
Court Services
Subordinate court units
Mobile Courts
Reaching remote areas
Awareness
Legal education sessions
Support Our Programs
Your contribution helps us continue defending human rights and transforming lives across Malawi.