PEFENAP (Peoples Federation for National Peace and Development) is dedicated to creating a platform where community beneficiaries have equal access to socio-economic justice, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. The organisation works to empower individuals and communities to live in peace while actively participating in their own development. Through inclusive and community-driven approaches, PEFENAP promotes dignity, fairness, and sustainable social transformation.
In a context where trust in law enforcement institutions such as the judiciary, police, and legal practitioners has been weakened by widespread corruption, PEFENAP steps in as a bridge between communities and justice. The organisation raises awareness and provides affordable, accessible legal and human rights services, enabling vulnerable populations to challenge injustices through lawful and informed means. Under the leadership of Executive Director Edward Chaka, a passionate and experienced community leader with strong networks across civil society and justice institutions in Malawi, PEFENAP continues to strengthen its impact.
PEFENAP is supported by a committed team of 10 full-time staff, 4 part-time staff, and 7 volunteers. The organisation is widely recognized for its expertise in delivering clear and practical policy education, as well as its strong record in human rights advocacy, peacebuilding, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and GBV awareness. Looking ahead, PEFENAP is focused on expanding a national referral mechanism through strategic partnerships, including the development of a Court Users Association to enhance citizen participation, strengthen advocacy, and improve access to justice at all levels.
OUR VISION
A just, peaceful, and empowered society where every individual—regardless of background, location, or social status—enjoys equal access to human rights, socio-economic justice, and fundamental freedoms. PEFENAP envisions communities that are informed, resilient, and actively engaged in shaping systems that protect dignity, fairness, and sustainable development for all.
OUR MISSION
PEFENAP exists to promote and protect human rights by bridging the gap between communities and justice systems through accessible legal awareness, civic education, and advocacy. We are committed to empowering citizens with knowledge and practical tools to challenge injustices, strengthen accountability, and rebuild trust in institutions. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and capacity building, we support individuals and communities to participate meaningfully in governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development processes.
Small Arms Confiscation Project PEFENAP’s Small Arms Confiscation Project is a strategic peace and security initiative aimed at reducing violence, preventing armed crime, and promoting long-term stability within communities. The project addresses the risks posed by the illegal possession, circulation, and misuse of small arms and firearms, which continue to threaten safety and undermine development in many areas. Through structured community engagement, civic education, and targeted awareness campaigns, PEFENAP helps communities understand the dangers of illicit weapons and encourages active participation in building safer environments.
A key strength of the project is its strong collaboration with the Malawi Police Service and the Malawi Defence Force (Malawi Army). Working hand in hand with these security institutions, PEFENAP supports lawful processes of identifying, reporting, and confiscating illegal firearms while ensuring that operations are conducted in a professional, rights-based, and community-sensitive manner. This partnership builds trust between citizens and security agencies, helping to close the gap created by fear, misinformation, and historical mistrust.
Beyond enforcement and confiscation, the project also focuses on prevention by addressing the root causes of armed violence, including poverty, lack of awareness, and weak community security structures. PEFENAP promotes dialogue, peacebuilding, and community-led safety initiatives that empower local leaders and residents to take ownership of security in their areas. In doing so, the Small Arms Confiscation Project contributes not only to immediate risk reduction but also to the creation of safer, more resilient communities across Malawi.
PEFENAP’s Climate Change Project is a community-driven initiative focused on building resilience, strengthening adaptation, and promoting sustainable environmental practices in response to the growing impacts of climate change in Malawi. The project works closely with the Malawi Meteorological Department to ensure that communities receive timely, accurate, and reliable weather and climate information that supports informed decision-making. Through this partnership, early warning systems are strengthened, enabling communities to better prepare for floods, droughts, and other climate-related hazards.
The project combines climate education, environmental awareness, and practical adaptation strategies to help communities protect their livelihoods and natural resources. PEFENAP engages local leaders, farmers, women, and youth in training sessions that promote sustainable land use, conservation practices, and climate-smart agriculture. By translating technical meteorological data into simple, actionable messages, the project ensures that even the most vulnerable communities can understand and respond effectively to climate risks.
Beyond awareness and preparedness, the Climate Change Project also promotes long-term environmental stewardship by encouraging community-led initiatives such as tree planting, natural resource management, and disaster risk reduction planning. Through collaboration with government institutions, local stakeholders, and development partners, PEFENAP is helping to build resilient communities that are better equipped to withstand climate shocks while safeguarding their environment for future generations.