Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5:53:34 AM CAT
Flag of Malawi MW
Government Institution

Department of Civic Education

Ministry of Local Government

Department Identity

Who We Are

The Department of Civic Education (DoCE) is a government entity under the Ministry of Local Government, mandated to lead, coordinate, and regulate civic education in Malawi.

We ensure citizens are informed about their rights, responsibilities, and the functioning of governance systems, providing national guidance on civic education standards.

As the custodian of civic education, we align all initiatives with national policies and Malawi 2063, ensuring every voice is heard across all regions.

Civic Education Dialogue
Operational Context

Community Dialogue in Action

Our Vision

To have a knowledgeable and patriotic citizenry

Our Mission

To coordinate the regulation of civic education services in Malawi

Legal & Policy Mandate

Institutional Mandate

The work of the Department is guided by national legal, policy, and institutional frameworks that define civic education as a key pillar of democratic governance.

THE CONSTITUTION

Provides the foundation for democratic governance, including principles of participation and accountability.

NATIONAL CIVIC EDUCATION POLICY

Provides strategic direction for coordination, delivery, and standardisation across Malawi.

CIVIC EDUCATION BILL

Aims to strengthen the regulatory and institutional framework (currently in development).

ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT

Ensures the right of citizens to access information held by public bodies.

COMMUNICATIONS ACT

Regulates the communications sector, supporting the dissemination of civic information.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT FRAMEWORKS

Support decentralized delivery through district structures and community hubs.

Focus Areas

Core Responsibilities

COORDINATING ACTIVITIES
NATIONAL STANDARDS
CITIZEN AWARENESS
INCLUSIVE PARTICIPATION
STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION
MINDSET CHANGE
Department Structure

Our Leadership

Mr. Lawrence Useni
Acting Director of Civic Education

Mr. Lawrence Useni

"As the lead for national civic education efforts, the Director provides strategic leadership in coordinating the sector to ensure all civic education functions are high-impact and aligned with the national development agenda."

National Pillar

Role in Malawi 2063

DoCE contributes significantly to the Mindset Change Enabler, which focuses on transforming attitudes, values, and behaviours to support national development goals.

Promotes responsibility and participation
Encourages positive development attitudes
Strengthens national identity and unity

2063

"Civic education is a key driver in ensuring that development efforts are supported by an informed and engaged population."

Strategic Enabler

Transforming mindset and values for national wealth and self-reliance.

Governance Framework

Organisational Structure

The Department operates within the Ministry of Local Government and is structured to support its national coordination and implementation mandate.

  • Department Leadership
  • Technical and Strategic Functions
  • Outreach & Communication Functions
  • District & Hub Coordination
DoCE Organisational Structure

Join the National Conversation

Become an active participant in Malawi's development. Whether you have a question, want to volunteer, or need to report an issue, your voice matters.
Get in Touch