National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust has expressed excitement with the performance of women aspirants in the September 16 General Election in Neno.
In collaboration with Centre for Civil Society Strengthening, Nice Trust supported the women under Nthawi Yawo Project in the district.
Nice Trust and CCSS initiated the project to enhance the participation of women in political leadership positions, following the district’s absence of female members of Parliament (MPs) and councillors.
As a result of the intervention, three women—Mary Maulidi Khembo and Mutani Tambala—were elected MPs (Democratic Progressive Party) for Neno East and Neno South, respectively, while Martha Chapendeka from Chikonde Ward in Neno North Constituency made it as councillor.
Speaking yesterday during a stakeholders’ review, Nice Trust executive director Gray Kalindekafe expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
He said: “We embarked on this project to remove barriers that prevent women from participating in elections. It was designed to empower women to participate meaningfully in the 2025 General Election and to increase their influence in political and decision-making processes.
“I am happy that what we advocated for in Neno District has borne fruit.”
In his remarks, the district’s director of planning and development Charles Lomoni commended Nice Trust for implementing the project.
He also encouraged both elected and unsuccessful candidates to embrace unity.
Chapendeka thanked Nice and CCSS, saying the trainings in public speaking helped her excel in the election.
Senior Chief Dambe encouraged women who contested—and those aspiring—to remain humble to win people’s trust.
Nice Trust and CCSS were implementing the project with funding from the United Nations Development Programme.
Besides Neno, the project was also running in Salima and Karonga districts
