About RISE
Rights Institute for Social Empowerment
Our Mission
To protect and advance fundamental human rights in Malawi through comprehensive legal aid, advocacy, and community empowerment initiatives. We are committed to ensuring justice and equality for all, with particular focus on marginalized and vulnerable populations.
Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves equal access to justice and the protection of their fundamental human rights, regardless of their background, identity, or economic status.
Our Vision
A Malawi where every individual enjoys their fundamental human rights, has access to justice, and lives with dignity and equality. We envision a society where marginalized communities are empowered to claim their rights and participate fully in democratic processes.
Through our programs, we strive to create lasting change in legal systems, policy frameworks, and community attitudes to build a more just and equitable nation.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability in all our work.
Inclusion
We believe in the equal worth and dignity of all people and work to ensure no one is left behind.
Impact
We are committed to achieving measurable, sustainable results that transform lives and communities.
Collaboration
We partner with government, civil society, and communities to amplify our collective impact.
Innovation
We continuously seek creative solutions to complex human rights challenges.
Empowerment
We build the capacity of individuals and communities to claim and defend their rights.
Our History
RISE's work on access to justice has roots in our support for paralegal services and community advice offices in Malawi's democratic strengthening journey. Over the years, we have evolved to address emerging human rights challenges and expand our reach across the country.
Through strategic partnerships with the Government of Malawi, civil society organizations, and international donors, we have implemented programs that have touched the lives of thousands of Malawians. Our PLEAD (People's Leadership in Enhanced Advocacy Drives) programme has been particularly impactful in expanding equitable access to justice.
Today, RISE continues to be a key partner to the Government of Malawi in developing comprehensive legal aid policies and frameworks, while advocating for the rights of the most marginalized in our society.
Our Partners
We work in partnership with government agencies, civil society organizations, and international bodies to advance human rights in Malawi.
Government of Malawi
Ministry of Justice, Legal Aid Bureau, and other government institutions
International Organizations
Hivos, United Nations agencies, and international development partners
Civil Society
17 grantee organizations including university legal aid clinics and CSOs
Our Team
Dedicated professionals working tirelessly to protect and advance fundamental human rights across Malawi.
Richard Yohane
Executive Director
Michael Mwandira
Programmes Manager
Samuel Masiku
Finance Manager
Esther Robert
Accounting Officer
Chikondi Kamwendo
ICT Officer
Anne Kachigamba
Advocacy Officer
Dorothy Phiri
Project Officer
Carol Chipata
Project Officer
Fanny Phiri
Project Officer