The Episcopal Conference of Malawi in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has today the 8th of December kick-started the “Enhancing the Participation of Women in the 2025 Malawi General Elections” Project. The project seeks to cultivate a political landscape that reflects the rich diversity of the nation of Malawi. Generously funded by different development Partners through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project carries the weight of collective commitment to fostering positive change and advancing the principles of equality and inclusivity in our democratic processes.
Speaking during the launch at Lilongwe hotel, ECM Director of Social Development, Brother Pascal Mtuwana emphasized that “this project is not barely a series of activities; it is a movement to break down barriers and create opportunities that will empower women to take an active role in shaping the future of our nation through the electoral process”.
The Director went on to say, “As the Catholic Church, our vision extends beyond the election itself. We aspire to create an environment where diversity is celebrated, and the voices of women are not just heard but actively sought. Such efforts are demonstrated through such initiatives. It is for this reason we find this initiative exciting”.
Retaliating on the same, Mr. Boniface Chibwana, the National CCJP Coordinator noted that “There is a notable decline in political participation, a trend that has raised concerns among citizens and the Church alike. As we navigate these circumstances, it becomes increasingly evident that the upcoming elections will be influenced by a huge voter apathy. To counter the declining political participation, a comprehensive approach is required”.
Speaking on behalf of UNDP and on his behalf as Programme Analyst, Mr. Charles Loker, expressed his organization’s desire to have the project achieve its objective which is women participation and empowerment. “If women are left behind, no nation and society will move ahead in a positive direction”, he lamented. The UNDP representative highlighted that they expect the program to achieve three goals along the way. The Civic voter education, civil registration and sensitizing people on legal reforms in the country. In the end the program must achieve capacity building to the citizenry, inclusion of all in societal matters and peace as these forms the major pillars of the Malawi Elections Support Programme (MESP).
Centre for Multiparty Democracy, Programs Manager, Ruth Mthekana, highlighted barriers that are affecting women participation in politics and electoral processes in Malawi. She noted that at the moment, women participation in politics stands at 23%. Among other things, she highlighted recruitment processes which are chauvinistic in nature emanated from the perception that women are not performers politically, discrimination, assert ownership, occupation profile, education and access to information (These all-favours men on the political landscape).
The Church has expressed her deepest gratitude to UNDP for their trust and unwavering support and commitment to this project as it will enhance inclusive and participatory democracy in Malawi.
