ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, A CASE STUDY OF PHANGWA VILLAGE T/A. MALENGACHANZI IN NKHOTAKOTA DISTRICT.

Domestic violence against women remains a pervasive human rights and public health issue, particularly in rural communities of Malawi. This study assesses the impact of domestic violence against women in Phangwa Village, Traditional Authority Malengachanzi, in Nkhota Kota District. The research aimed to examine the forms of domestic violence experienced by women, identify contributing factors, and assess the social, economic, and psychological effects on victims. A qualitative case study design was employed, using interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with women survivors, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders. The findings reveal that domestic violence in Phangwa Village manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse. Key contributing factors include poverty, alcohol abuse, cultural norms that perpetuate gender inequality, and limited access to legal and social support services. The impacts of domestic violence on women were found to be profound, leading to physical injuries, psychological trauma, reduced economic productivity, and social isolation. The study further highlights gaps in awareness of legal protections and inadequate community-based interventions. The research concludes that domestic violence significantly undermines the wellbeing and empowerment of women in Phangwa Village. It recommends strengthening community sensitization programs, improving access to victim support services, and enforcing existing laws to reduce domestic violence and promote gender equality. Future research should incorporate longitudinal data, engage men and boys and evaluate policy implementation, while local authorities, civil society, and traditional leaders collaborate to strengthen prevention strategies, survivor-centered responses, and sustainable economic empowerment initiatives within Nkhota Kota District communities nationwide. Furthermore, integrating gender-responsive education, strengthening reporting mechanisms, increasing access to justice, and expanding psychosocial services are essential steps toward reducing domestic violence, enhancing women’s.