Women Urged to Seek Leadership Posts in Upcoming Malawi Election
The workshop is part of a broader effort to challenge existing social norms and empower women to seek leadership positions at all community levels.
RUMPHI, Malawi— Local women's rights advocates are challenging female residents to pursue key leadership roles ahead of September's general election, arguing that women are under-represented in political positions, writes Taonga Chizinga Nyirenda
Chikulamayembe Women Forum executive director Tiwonge Gondwe announced the initiative Monday during a three-day feminist leadership training workshop targeting 25 women from diverse community groups.
"We aim to build capacity so women can mobilise and influence change," Gondwe said. The workshop focuses on power analysis and community leadership strategies.
Rumphi district currently lacks female representation in parliamentary and ward council positions, highlighting the gender disparity in local politics.
Participant Mary Manda, a former village development committee vice chairperson, cited cultural barriers and inter-women jealousy as significant obstacles to female political participation.
"For ages, women in my area are perceived as a weaker sex who cannot lead," Manda said. Cultural norms traditionally discourage women from speaking publicly or assuming leadership roles.
The training, supported financially by Just Associates (JASS), includes participants from women's health movements, HIV support groups, and local women's organisations.
With women comprising a majority of the population, organizers hope to encourage increased political engagement and representation in upcoming elections.
The workshop is part of a broader effort to challenge existing social norms and empower women to seek leadership positions at all community levels.