WOMEN MANIFESTO SECOND EDITION LAUNCHED

Tuesday June 17 2025, marked the historic launch of the Second Edition of the Women’s Manifesto. This powerful advocacy tool outlines key demands and priorities for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in Malawi.

Speaking at the colourful event held at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe, WOLREC Executive Director Maggie Kathewera Banda emphasised that the Women’s Manifesto will serve as a guide for engaging duty bearers, helping them understand the specific demands and expectations of women across the country.

“We will engage presidential candidates from various political parties in Malawi and ensure they sign commitment cards as a pledge to prioritize women’s issues when they assume office,” she said. “Beyond that, we will work with other key institutions—such as the judiciary, immigration, the police, traditional leaders, and women’s groups—to ensure women’s rights are advanced at all levels.”

The event facilitated by WOLREC and Oxfam in Malawi was supported by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the European Union, and UN Women.

In her remarks, British High Commissioner to Malawi Fiona Ritchie reaffirmed the UK Government’s dedication to gender equality in Malawi through various initiatives such as the Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza Program.

“This Manifesto is not just a document—it is a call to action, a tool for accountability, and a blueprint for systemic reforms. It is a bold declaration that women’s rights are human rights, and the time for change is now. When women are empowered, economies grow. When women are included, communities thrive. Gender equality is a catalyst for innovation, productivity, and prosperity,” she said.

Delivering the keynote address at the launch was Dr Grace Mandisa Naledi Pandor, former South African Minister of International Relations and current Chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

Dr Pandor applauded the gathering, saying it was deeply encouraging to witness women uniting with a shared purpose to advance a common agenda for gender equality and social justice.

The new edition of the Women’s Manifesto expands from 11 to 15 thematic areas, reflecting the evolving challenges and aspirations of women in Malawi since the release of the first edition in 2019.

The event attracted a diverse and influential audience, including European Union (EU) Ambassador Rune Skinnebach, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza; Minister of Education (Higher Education) Jessie Kabwila; former Minister of Education (Basic Education) Nancy Chaola Mdooko; veteran politicians, Civil Society, Male champions and women from diverse backgrounds.