In the riverside community of Mpondasi in Mangochi, the morning unfolds with familiar routines of fishing and market preparation, yet a deeper transformation is taking place. Citizens, like farmer Emmanuel Jere, are actively participating in community patrols and peacebuilding initiatives, shifting away from cycles of theft, mob justice, and violent disputes. Their efforts illustrate that lasting peace can emerge from ordinary people willing to act differently and collaborate with authorities rather than resort to revenge.
Mangochi District, home to over half a million people, has long faced challenges including cross-border disputes, resource conflicts, and strained relations between police and communities. Limited police resources previously contributed to vigilantism and eroded trust. The introduction of Community Policing Forums (CPFs), trained in conflict resolution, early-warning response, and mediation, has started to reshape these dynamics. Implemented by the Malawi Peace and Unity Commission (MPUC) in partnership with UNDP through the Peacebuilding Fund, CPFs now connect communities directly with law enforcement and help prevent violence before it escalates.
Police officers, including Assistant Commissioner Limbani Bekete and Inspector James Kumbikano, note the significant impact of these initiatives. Communities are increasingly proactive in reporting threats and bringing suspects to authorities, saving police resources and fostering trust. Training sessions have encouraged mutual respect, enabling officers to engage communities with empathy while CPF members understand the law and their roles in maintaining security.
Emmanuel Jere’s personal experiences highlight the transformative effect of these interventions. On multiple occasions, he intervened to prevent mob violence, escorting suspected offenders safely to the police and ensuring that disputes were handled lawfully. His calm leadership has earned the respect of his neighbors and demonstrated that non-violent approaches can replace cycles of retaliation.
Today, Mpondasi reflects a stronger sense of unity and shared responsibility. Community members, police, and CPF leaders meet regularly to discuss safety strategies and celebrate successes. The community now actively participates in patrols and dialogue, fostering trust and collaboration. The shift from fear to cooperation in Mpondasi exemplifies how local leadership and policing partnerships can reduce violence and build sustainable community peace.
