Vice President Jane Ansah has pledged her support to Malawi’s women’s movement, emphasizing that unity and empowerment are crucial for national development.
Meeting with the Women’s Manifesto Movement, Ansah highlighted the challenges facing women, including violence, health disparities, and limited access to education.
Ansah cited Rwanda’s success in educating women and achieving significant representation in civil service as a model for Malawi, stressing that government investment in staff and infrastructure is vital to address these issues.
She emphasized that women’s participation in politics and decision-making is key to progress, reminding the delegation that human rights are categorized into Civil and Political Rights, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and Collective Rights (or Group Rights).
Maggie Kathewera Banda, Executive Director of the Women’s Manifesto Movement, called for increased budget allocation, technology, and machinery to improve farming and business, stating, “We expect you to read through the Women’s Manifesto, which highlights critical areas requiring attention.”
These areas include economic empowerment, land rights, climate change, and access to education and healthcare.
UN Women country representative Letty Chiwala pledged global support for Malawi’s women’s movement, stating, “Our leaders are supporting the cause and want you, Vice President, to be part of the movement.” UN Women is working with six coalitions, including Malawi and Canada, to drive change and collaborating with the Ministry of Gender to promote gender equality.
The Women’s Manifesto Movement is urging stakeholders to prioritize women’s empowerment and equality, addressing concerns around social and religious beliefs, gender norms, and access to justice.
Women demand digital protection and increased funding to combat gender-based violence. As Ansah concluded, “United we stand, divided we fall,” unity is key to progress and women’s empowerment is essential for Malawi’s development.
The movement’s second edition of the Women’s Manifesto, launched in September 2025 outlines key demands and priorities for Malawian women and girls, covering 15 thematic areas, including education, leadership, politics, governance, agriculture, peace and security, access to justice, violence, and climate change.
