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The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of Karonga Diocese has trained 30 community leaders from Uliwa and Khwawa wards in Karonga South Constituency to promote women’s participation in politics ahead of the 2025 Tripartite Elections.

In an interview on Tuesday, CCJP desk officer Obert Mkandawire said they want many women to contest in local government and parliamentary elections.

He said: “Our expectation is that these community leaders will be trainers in their respective communities. They will also engage other community structures on the need to vote for female candidates in the 2025 General Election.

“We noted that since the dawn of democracy[in 1993], the district has had only two female legislators and right now, out of the 10 wards, we only have one female ward councillor.”

Gloria Singini, a participant, pledged to take the message to communities.

“The training was critical and with support, we will amplify the message further. We need constant engagements to demystify social norms that regard women as not capable of occupying leadership positions,” she said.

Elise Msiska, a community member, asked traditional leaders to ensure women candidates conduct political activities in their areas without challenges.

“Sometimes women candidates fail to conduct campaign in some areas due to political violence. I ask traditional leaders and other stakeholders to ensure women candidates are protected during campaign,” she said.

The project is running with financial support from the United Nations Development Programme.