Anglican Men’s Ministry in Southern Malawi to Address Suicide Crisis at Annual Gathering

The Anglican Diocese of Southern Malawi’s men’s ministry, known as the Avuwi Men’s Ministry, has placed the country’s rising suicide rate among men at the centre of its annual gathering. Ahead of the guild’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), the ministry said many men are suffering in silence under social and economic pressure.

Avuwi Diocesan President Harrison Longwe said this year’s conference would address the challenges facing men, including financial hardship, family pressures, emotional struggles and suicide. He said statistics consistently show that men account for the majority of suicide cases recorded in Malawi, which he described as both heartbreaking and deeply concerning.

“Many men are carrying burdens alone. They are battling financial difficulties, social expectations, family responsibilities and mental health challenges, often without seeking help,” Longwe said.

Longwe said delegates are expected to explore both spiritual and practical responses aimed at saving lives and encouraging men to seek support before reaching a crisis. The gathering’s theme, “Strengthen Yourself in the Lord,” is drawn from 1 Samuel 30:6, which recounts how David found strength in God during a period of loss and uncertainty. Longwe said the theme is especially relevant as many men are experiencing despair, anxiety and hopelessness. He said men, including Avuwi members, face challenges that should be acknowledged, but that God is faithful to turn challenges into solutions.

The three-day AGM is expected to draw church leaders, professionals and hundreds of delegates from across the diocese. The Diocese’s Bishop, the Rt Rev Alinafe Kalemba, will attend, and business executive Martin Msimuko will serve as Guest of Honour. Speakers Akuzike Kafwamba and Rev Fr Foster Chiromo are also expected to address participants on men’s issues, leadership and personal development.

Delegates will also take part in a Jesus March from St Matthews Anglican Church to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, where they will engage in charity activities and interact with patients, a practical act of care for the sick (Matthew 25:35). The AGM opens on Friday and closes on Sunday. The main events are scheduled for Saturday, 14 November 2026, and will include worship services, prayers, discussions on men’s wellbeing, the public march and charitable outreach.

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