In Nkhotakota, the presence of women in leadership remains strikingly low. Of the five Members of Parliament representing the district, not a single one is a woman, and out of 10 ward councillors, only one female managed to climb up that ladder. For too long, women’s voices have been sidelined from decision-making spaces that shape their lives and communities.
But a new wave is gaining momentum led by women who are refusing to stay in the background.
Through the support of Women Forums, women across Traditional Authorities like Mwadzama and areas and Mphonde are discovering their power and stepping boldly into leadership.
Precious Bai(second from the left) – Ready to Break the Political Glass Ceiling
"If we want things to change, we must be part of the change."
Precious Bai is a proud member of the District Women Forum and is now preparing to contest as a councillor for Walemera Ward, Nkhotakota - Liwawadzi Constituency. Her decision is more than political—it’s personal. She is one of the few women openly challenging the long-standing gender gap in local governance.
Bertha Mkumba – Championing Grassroots Leadership
"Leadership doesn’t belong to men alone. We have a right to be at the table."
From Mwadzama Women Forum, Bertha Mkumba is also making history. She’s vying for the position of ward councillor in Mkhula Ward, Nkhotakota - Mkhula Constituency, aiming to bring real representation and inclusive decision-making to her area.
Bertha together with fellow women leaders-Mwadzama women forum
Henceforth, these platforms are not only helping women gain confidence-they’re also creating opportunities for mentorship, networking, and political empowerment.
Recently, the women leaders convened 9 female political aspirants who are preparing to contest in the upcoming general elections for Member of Parliament and ward councillor positions.
The gathering aimed to help them refine their manifestos, gain confidence, and prepare mentally and emotionally for the campaign journey ahead.
In a powerful moment captured on camera, two community women leaders stood before the room as mentors, and women who’ve lived through the realities of public scrutiny.
“They Will Call You Names—But Stand Your Ground”
The women leaders did not sugar-coat the road ahead.
“You will be insulted. You’ll be called names. You’ll be told that politics is not for women,” one mentor said, her voice calm but firm.
“They will question your character, your past, your worth. But remember why you are standing—to change the future. Do not retreat.”
Getrude Ng’ona encouraging the aspirants during the session
The leaders reminded the aspirants that stepping into leadership means breaking cultural barriers, and that comes with resistance.
“Go Where the People Are”
Campaign strategy was another key focus of the discussion.
Abgail Chikakuda –member of women forum and a veteran councillor advising the aspirants
“Don’t wait for people to come to you,” another leader advised.
“Move. Walk. Go to the villages, the marketplaces, the fishing camps, the churches-wherever people are. Be seen. Be heard.”
They encouraged the aspirants not to underestimate the power of presence and personal engagement, especially in rural areas where many women and youth feel unheard.
“Take Women With You”
Solidarity was another message-and perhaps the most powerful.
“When you think of your campaign team, think of women,” one leader said.
“Take other women along. Support each other. Women know the issues. Women vote. Women shape the home and the nation.”
Therefore, with the 2025 elections approaching, these empowered women-both aspirants and the mentors-are building a political wave from the ground up. Supported by Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund-WPHF through UNWomen Malawi, the Women Forums were established under the Women Voice for Peace Project which is being implemented by Umunthu Plus in the district.
