Amref Malawi Country Director Hester Mkwinda Nyasulu has welcomed commitments from various political parties to improve healthcare, youth development, and women’s welfare in the country.
Nyasulu made the remarks during an interface meeting between political party leaders and civil society organizations, which aimed to understand the parties’ plans and budgets for healthcare, women’s empowerment, and youth development.
She expressed optimism that parties would prioritize these areas, particularly for young people.
“We need political parties that will not only recognize their critical role in society, but also actively invest in the health and well-being of citizens,” Nyasulu said.
Nyasulu emphasized that investing in women’s, children’s, and adolescents’ health is not optional, describing it as a moral, economic, and social imperative—key to national progress and long-term prosperity.
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) spokesperson Jessy Kabwira said their party is committed to empowering women and youth through initiatives such as small business loans. United Transformation Movement (UTM) Secretary General Willy Karonga added that the meeting helped refine their policies and offered insights on better serving Malawians ahead of the September 16 elections.
Amref Malawi has urged political parties to institutionalize at least 30 percent youth representation in decision-making bodies at all levels, ensuring young people have a voice in shaping the country’s future.
The initiative is part of the Collaborative Advocacy Action Plan (CAAP), supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) in partnership with the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH).
