Authorities in Malawi have opted to take advantage of the respect religious leaders command in society, to partner with faith-based organisations in anti-corruption campaigns.

Leading women rights activists in Malawi have cautioned President Bakili Muluzi against using abusive language towards women at political rallies, a practice they claim frustrates efforts to uplift their social status.

There has been a shortage of consultation time in Malawi's PRSP process, the government has dominated the process and been reluctant to share information, participation has been selective and structural and institutional linkages have been inadequate. This is according to a Christian Aid study examining claims from donors that the PRSP policy and planning processes have been opened up to extensive participation by ordinary people and civil society groups.

Although Malawi is making some progress towards improving its human rights, the areas of education, health, freedom of expression and women's rights remain problematic, says a new report by the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC).