.….Calls for Accelerated Action
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Mary Navisha, has raised fresh concerns over the low number of women serving in Malawi’s Parliament, revealing that women currently make up only 21 percent of all sitting legislators.
Speaking in an interview, Navisha said the figure is a reminder of the persistent barriers women face in political participation despite years of advocacy aimed at increasing female leadership in governance.
“It is worrying that women remain underrepresented in such an important decision-making space,” Navisha said.
“We need to collectively step up efforts to ensure more women are empowered and supported to contest for public office.”
She attributed the low numbers to structural and cultural challenges, including limited access to campaign resources, political intimidation, and deeply rooted social norms that discourage women from seeking leadership roles.
According to Navisha, increased female representation is critical to achieving gender equality and ensuring that issues affecting women and girls such as gender-based violence, maternal health, and economic empowerment are addressed effectively at policy level.
The minister said the government, civil society organizations, and political parties must intensify capacity-building programs, mentorship initiatives, and financial support mechanisms aimed at helping women navigate the political landscape.
Several gender rights advocates have echoed Navisha’s sentiments, saying the 21 percent representation falls short of regional and international commitments such as the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, which encourages member states to strive for 50 percent women’s representation in decision-making positions.
As Malawi prepares for future elections, stakeholders are urging communities to challenge stereotypes and support female candidates, emphasizing that stronger representation in Parliament will contribute to more inclusive and balanced national development.
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