Oxfam has emphasized the importance of increasing and retaining women in political positions, especially ahead of Malawi’s general elections on September 16.
Oxfam Malawi Country Director, Lingalireni Mihowa, reiterated the need to profile and support more women leaders during an event held Thursday in Sub-Traditional Authority Mulenga, Thyolo. The event was part of the “Ending Child Marriages” and “Elect Her, Retain Her” campaigns.
“I urge you to trust women by voting them back into leadership positions, as they are development-oriented,” said Mihowa.
Member of Parliament for Thyolo Thava, Mary Navicha, applauded Oxfam for its support, including the provision of bicycles and learning materials to female students. She pledged continued development in the constituency if re-elected.
Other female MPs, including Grace Kwelepeta of Zomba Malosa and Victoria Kingston of Mangochi Central, encouraged women to leverage their voting power to boost female representation in parliament.
Sub-Traditional Authority Mulenga appealed to authorities for the construction of a secondary school in Maonga, improved road infrastructure, and urgent support for those facing hunger. He also echoed the call to trust women in leadership, citing their effectiveness in driving development.
Oxfam continues to advocate for girls’ education and women’s participation in leadership across Malawi.
