Multichoice has 60% women workforce
Multichoice Malawi boasts of a 60 percent women representation in the workface, setting it apart from many companies that are barely on the recommended 40 percent mark.
Head of customer experience and care Lunia Bandawe revealed the news at a women’s luncheon they organised in Blantyre.
The event was part of celebrating the women’s month in line with the International Women’s Day that falls on March 8.
She said her company has a deliberate policy of employing more women to give then equal opportunities as men and encourage girls still in school that there is a place for them in the workplace.
Blantyre Rotary Club president and Continental Asset Management business development manager Grace Austin was the guest speaker.
She advised women to exercise financial prudence to enable investment for independence and rainy days.
Austin observed the tendency by women to shop on impulse rather than on a needs basis through budgeting.
“There are times we feel the urge to buy something because we like to get back at our enemies. You cannot invest for the future if you don’t budget.
“The need to feel good also leads some into debt by buying multi-coloured shoes to match outfits, make-up, hair extensions and clothes. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look good, but not at the expense of priorities,” she said.
She said 20 percent of salaries must go towards investment, with 50 percent going towards pertinent expenses such as rentals, school fees and bills.
Meanwhile along the same women’s month celebrations, Bankers Association of Malawi (BAM) held its fitth women’s conference in Lilongwe with a call for women in the finance sector to lead as architects of change, pioneers of progress, and champions of equality.
BAM president Zandile Shaba said in a society where women still face challenges, there is need to join forces and work together for inclusive growth and economic equity for all.
“Let us challenge the status quo, break down barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. We should never lose sight of the incredible potential that lies within each and every one of us,” she said.
Shaba, who is also Centenary Bank Malawi managing director, cited barriers to economic empowerment such as limited access to finance and resources, entrenched gender norms and cultural biases.
BAM chief executive officer Lyness Nkungula said topics discussed at the conference included leadership skills, property rights management in couples, retirement planning and investment as well as mental health.
The conference was held under the theme ‘Driving inclusive growth, empowering women for economic equity towards Malawi 2063.
