First Vice-President Jane Ansah says women have a critical role in confronting emerging social challenges anchoring families and upholding moral values.
Speaking on Saturday in Lilongwe during the Central Africa provincial celebrations of the Mothers’ Union held as part of the Anglican Church’s 150th anniversary, she described the women’s guild as a pillar of faith and community service.
Ansah said the Mothers’ Union’s work in supporting women and children, promoting education and uplifting vulnerable communities complements government’s efforts to build a stable and values-driven society.
“Through your work, you minister to the needs of women and children, support education and uplift the needy in the communities you serve. These acts of service demonstrate your commitment to both the church and the wider community,” she said.
Ansah, herself a Pentecostal church pastor, commended the organisation for its role in addressing social issues such as gender-based violence and urged members to scale up efforts in tackling mental health challenges, which she said are increasingly affecting families.
“I encourage you to extend your sensitisation efforts to include mental health awareness, as this is a growing challenge in our societies today,” she said.
In her remarks, Mothers’ Union Malawi president Gloria Chembezi said the vision of founder Mary Sumner continues to guide the organisation’s focus in promoting strong marriages, raising children in faith and fostering unity among Christian women.
She said the union has provided women with purpose, support and leadership opportunities, enabling them to contribute to national development.
“We have promoted Christian values, addressed social issues and contributed to national development,” said Chembezi.
But she called on government to support women’s economic empowerment through improved access to loans to boost their businesses.
Anglican Council in Malawi chairperson Bishop William Mchombo urged members to play a leading role in addressing social challenges threatening family stability, including social media abuse, betting, human trafficking and early marriages.
The event attracted delegates from Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
The celebrations form part of the global Mothers’ Union 150th Anniversary whose main main international event is scheduled for September in Durban, South Africa.
