‘Politicians inspire change’

Malawi embraced democracy 30 years ago, but some gaps in the nation’s political system persist. Our News Analyst CLEMENT CHINOKO engages Kensington Leadership Institute director Dr Peter Chinoko, who highlights the need to empower political leaders for meaningful change. The institute works to create political space for youths and women. Excerpts:

Firstly, what is Kensington Leadership institute all about?

The Institute was conceived to conduct meticulous research and develop materials supportive of transforming the economy and social fabric of Malawi through elevation of key public policies as well as promotion of equity and justice, skills and professional development of leaders from public, private and civil society sectors.

Why is it crucial to target the country’s political leaders?

Political leaders hold significant influence and power over the decision-making processes and policies of a country. We want to leverage this influence and power to bring about impactful change in Malawi. Political leaders have the authority to implement policies, allocate resources, and mobilise support, making them crucial stakeholders in any transformational endeavour.

How is the nation responding to the calls for the youth to be the axis of national politics?

The youth have for long been used as political pawns as well as predatory vultures on the opposition. Malawi must create an enabling environment that supports and encourages youth participation. Entrepreneurship and innovation should be the bedrock among young people to foster economic growth and job creation.

How will your organisation help the nation amid resistance to give the youth crucial roles in politics and national administration?

Kensington will contribute to the youth education and vocational training expertise that will prepare the youth to contribute meaningfully to various sectors such as technology, infrastructure and healthcare, just to mention a few.

Your institute also seeks to become a trusted research centre. How is that going to change the country’s fortunes?

A: Research can lead to innovation, development of new technologies and improvement of existing industries. Research backed discoveries can also lead to the creation of new industries and markets, which can enhance Malawi’s competitiveness in the global economy.

How can the prevailing mistrust between politicians and citizens due to unfulfilled campaign promises be addressed?

Politicians should be accountable for their promises and actions and mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating their performance should be established. If they fail, as the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi stipulates in Section 40, political choices should be made on them.

What strategies have you put in place to accomplish your plans?

To add value to our programmes, we have partnered with the Thabo Mbeki Institute in South Africa to deepen the appreciation of transformational leadership. Being a subsidiary of Exploits University, the institute will also use staff with unique capabilities in its trainings.

As the country heads for elections in 2025, what role will you play to increase women and youth participation?

The institute will provide mentorship to women and the youth of all political parties who o aspire for leadership positions in the 2025 polls. Mentorship in transformational leadership, effective public speaking as well as resource mobilisation.