Malawi’s Women Have the Numbers-Now Let’s Get the Seats
Hello, and happy Women's Month! As Malawi moves toward the elections in September, I can't hide my excitement about the growing momentum for women's participation in politics. Across the country, there is increasing advocacy for women to take up leadership roles, and various campaigns are being launched to address the barriers that prevent them from running for office. One notable development is the police-led campaign promoting women's inclusion in politics, as well as different stakeholders stepping up to amplify women's voices. Another promising sign is that women have registered in larger numbers than men, making up 70% representing the eligible female population. According to Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Malawi's 2025 voter registration has seen a significant shift in gender participation, with women outnumbering men. As of the latest data, 4,113,342 women have registered, while 3,087,563 men have signed up, bringing the total number of registrants to 7,200,905. When compared to the 2019 voter registration numbers, there has been a noticeable increase in female participation by 299,764 as 3,813,578 women were registered in 2019. However, MEC's Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, clarified that these numbers are provisional and will undergo a data-cleaning process, which may result in minor adjustments.
This increase in female registration comes at a time when organizations such as OXFAM,WORLEC and the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) are advocating for greater female participation in the electoral process through its project, 'Enhancing the Participation of Women in the 2025 General Elections,' funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This is a clear indication that change is happening, and I commend all those working tirelessly to push this agenda forward. Beyond just voting, women must lead. However, while celebrating these milestones, we must also confront the reality that women's representation in Parliament remains low—currently standing at just 21%. The Ministry of Gender has set an ambitious goal to increase this to 40%, ensuring a 60:40 representation ratio between men and women. But the real question is: Are women aware that efforts are being made to empower them to contest? Do they know that campaigns are in place to prevent harassment and promote fair treatment for women in politics? Too often, women hear these campaigns and assume they are meant for someone else, not them. But to achieve the 40% target, we cannot just support the movement from the sidelines—we must step up and be part of the change ourselves. If you are a woman reading this, I urge you to consider running for office. The space is open, and your voice is needed in decision making circles.
Young Women Must Be Part of the Political
Young women, in particular, have an opportunity to be part of this political revolution. We currently have very few women in politics, yet their presence is crucial to ensuring that youth perspectives are well represented. In 2019, Hon Fyness Mangonjwa made history by running for office at just 22 years old.
Today, she continues to grow as a leader, proving that young women belong in politics just as much as their older counterparts. The benefits of having more women in politics are undeniable. When women are part of decision making, policies become more inclusive, addressing issues that directly affect women and children, such as maternal health, education, and economic empowerment. Imagine a Parliament where more women actively shape national policies, ensuring that gender sensitive legislation is enacted and implemented. Imagine a future where young girls grow up seeing strong female leaders and know that they too can aspire to the highest positions in the land.
The time for action Is now and the time for imagining is over—the . Let's encourage, support, and uplift women to take on leadership roles. If you've ever thought about running for office, this is your moment. Let's work together to build a Parliament that truly represents the voices of all Malawians.
21 comments
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Thank you so much.It’s about time.
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Impressive work! A truly democratic system should reflect the diversity of it’s citizens. Women’s participation ensures that democracy is more representative, fair, and just.
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This article is both empowering and timely. It not only celebrates the growing momentum of women’s political engagement in Malawi, but also calls women to action with clarity and purpose. It’s a strong reminder that representation begins with courage, and the future truly belongs to those who step forward.
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This is a great article, it highlights the importance of women’s voices in decision-making processes. For Malawi to achieve notable progress, it is crucial that women participate actively in decision-making. One way to achieve this is by uniting and promoting women’s participation in the upcoming elections scheduled for September this year. Keep up the good work.
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Beautiful piece Faith, indeed women are doing great in politics.
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Beautiful piece Faith, indeed women are doing great in politics.
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Way ti go🔥🔥🔥
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Impressive,women must take part in politics not only by being supporters but take decision making positions,we hope to have more female MPs and councilors this year.
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Oh yes 🙌
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Women’s inclusion in politics isn’t just about representation. it’s about redefining priorities. When women are at the table, issues like education, healthcare, child protection, and economic empowerment get the attention they deserve. In a country like Malawi, where women form the majority of the population, their voices must shape the policies that affect their lives. True democracy is only possible when leadership reflects the people all the people.
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This is powerful. And time for action is now!!
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Time is now🔥🔥🔥
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Wow what a timely write up. Indeed women’s participation in politics is crucial for shaping inclusive and developmental policies and legislation. When women are involved in decision-making processes, they bring unique perspectives and experiences that help address the needs of diverse populations. This leads to more effective and equitable governance, ultimately driving sustainable development and social progress. Increased representation of women in politics can also inspire future generations of women leaders, creating a positive impact on society. Thank you Faith. Keep doing this wonderful work.
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You are the woman you think you are faith I must say…bravo for showing much interest in women in power, gone are the days when women were being disparage…need I say more ? Keep up the good work Miss kaunde
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Thank you so much Maggito❤️
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You are the woman you think you are faith I must say…bravo for showing much interest in women in power, gone are the days when women were being disparage…need I say more ? Keep up the good work Miss kaunde
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You are the woman you think you are faith I must say…bravo for showing much interest in women in power, gone are the days when women were being disparage…need I say more ? Keep up the good work Miss kaunde
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You are very much good at writing. This is an informing article and good exposure to the stories about women involvement. Do you know that hindrance to achieve these goals and making sure women are participating is women themselves. Women hate each other and therefore can’t vote for eachother. Change of mentality among women can be something women can advocate in order for many women should be able to participate in leadership positions.
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You are very much good at writing. This is an informing article and good exposure to the stories about women involvement. Do you know that hindrance to achieve these goals and making sure women are participating is women themselves. Women hate each other and therefore can’t vote for eachother. Change of mentality among women can be something women can advocate in order for many women should be able to participate in leadership positions.
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Great Article Faith, in this democratic era we need to have women in decision making, policy formulation.There is a great need to increase the representation of women in politics. Go girl we need more of this article!
Beautiful article. It is high time women stop looking down on themselves and take up these leadership roles. Big up to the organizations that are supporting women financially as well since lack of resources is another factor that fuels lack of interest for women to take part in politics