CCJP pushes for women's fair chances ahead of 2025 general elections
Elections are scheduled for September 2025 in the southern African nation where women make up 51.48% of the population but remain inadequately represented politically.
CHITIPA, Malawi- The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) has introduced a project to help women attain leadership and decision-making positions ahead of Malawi's 2025 general elections, writes Patricia Kayuni.
The project aims to give aspiring female candidates equal opportunities during campaigns and the election process.
It comes against a backdrop of women being disadvantaged in Malawi due to factors like illiteracy, culture, discrimination and limited economic resources.
"People have all sorts of misconceptions as regards to her inability to hold a family of her own," said Janet Mhango, CCJP's gender coordinator in Chitipa.
The yearlong project running from November 2023 to October 2024 will target female voters with civic education and women interested in running for office with skills training and other support.
Elections are scheduled for September 2025 in the southern African nation where women make up 51.48% of the population but remain inadequately represented politically.
Mhango said campaigns in Malawi are often conducted through violence, abuse and name-calling, which can be especially difficult for unmarried female candidates.
Women also tend to lack assets to help fund campaigns.
"We want to empower our women," Mhango said.
The $100,000 project is being implemented in all 28 Malawi districts with support from the United Nations Development Program.
James Gubudu, a district gender development officer, hailed the project as timely and urged women leaders to inspire others to run.