Theatre players move to demystify on abortion issues

The stigma surrounding abortion and post-abortion care remains a misunderstood area in most communities. Perhaps it is in this regard that Paragon Arts Theatre on Saturday conducted a training dubbed Shattered Silence at Jacaranda Cultural Centre in Blantyre aimed at equipping journalists, theatre practitioners and youths with knowledge on post-abortion care and sexual and reproductive health rights. Paragon Arts Theatre director Philmon Kuipa said the training was designed to capacitate key opinion shapers in society with accurate information on post-abortion care.

“We were looking at capacitating journalists and theatre practitioners because these are custodians of truth in society. When they speak or write, people believe them. “We wanted to give them information regarding post-abortion care because many people do not know that such services exist, which makes it difficult for communities to access them,” he said.

Kuipa said the organisation aims to reduce stigma and misinformation associated with abortion-related issues by encouraging open dialogue. “Most people regard this topic as a taboo. Even when somebody miscarries, they fear talking about it because of stereotypes.

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We want people to start talking about this subject so that we reduce stigma and find solutions together,” he added. Kuipa also urged authorities and stakeholders to create platforms for dialogue on abortion and post-abortion care, noting that although abortion is largely restricted in Malawi, post-abortion care is recognised by the government. “The nation acknowledges post-abortion care, which means abortions are happening, legal or illegal.

Reports show that over 50 000 abortion cases were recorded in 2024. These are our sisters, mothers and friends. Let’s have conversations and find the best ways to handle this situation,” he said.

A participant Vanessa Daraya Malinda, who is also a theatre practitioner and reproductive health advocate, said she attended the training to deepen her understanding of abortion laws and cultural perceptions. “I didn’t know that abortions are legal but with restrictions. This training helped me understand the norms and cultures people believe regarding abortion,” she said.

Malinda said the training will influence how she portrays abortion related issues in theatre productions. “I now have a different understanding. As a theatre practitioner, I will address these issues differently and come up with informed projects or plays that can educate people,” she said.

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