Copyright faceofmalawi
A 17-year-old boy from Bembeke, Traditional Authority Kamenyagwaza in Dedza, has survived a suicide attempt after allegedly losing K660,000 in what locals suspect to be a “magic money scam.” The teenager who runs a small business selling cooking oil, chips, and offering Mpamba and Airtel Money services discovered that all the money he had kept in a carton after daily transactions had mysteriously vanished. Devastated by the loss, he tried to take his own life but was rescued by community members and rushed to Dedza District Hospital, where he received treatment. However, what has shocked child rights advocates is that Group Village Head Khongoni and Sub-T/A Kumbuwa allegedly ordered the boy to pay K75,000 for “bringing shame” to the community through his suicide attempt. Child rights activist Martin Kapolo has condemned the decision, calling it “disturbing and insensitive.” “The boy was already emotionally broken and needed care, not punishment. We have engaged the local chiefs to reconsider their stance, and we trust Senior Chief Kachindamoto will intervene appropriately,” said Kapolo. The matter has since been referred to Senior Chief Kamenyagwaza, who has summoned all parties involved to review the incident. Meanwhile, Dedza District Social Welfare Officer, Edward Chisanga, said his office is monitoring the case closely, stressing that suicide attempts are a mental health issue requiring professional help, not fines or public shaming. “We’re not criticizing chiefs,” he noted. “But they need to understand the right procedures. This boy needs psychological support, not punishment. This is a mental health problem, not misconduct.” The incident has reignited calls for more awareness on mental health and child protection, especially in rural communities where cultural interpretations often clash with modern welfare standards. Copied: Malawi24
