Generation Equality in Malawi
Generation Equality in Malawi is implemented through various initiatives and programs designed to foster gender equality and enhance women’s leadership. The main key initiatives include the hosting of the Intergenerational Dialogue on Women’s Leadership, which brought together over 3000 different stakeholders to foster collaboration and reflect on major commitments. The Education Plus Initiative was launched in April 2022 to empower young women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa by increasing investments and actions in their leadership and education. Also, the First Women Trade Centre was established in Lilongwe to provide a platform for women entrepreneurs to network and gain opportunities at the global and regional levels. The private sector in Malawi has been engaged in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education for girls, investing in women-led businesses, and offering mentorship programs. The HeForShe Barbershop Toolbox is another initiative in the country that is engaging men and boys in grassroots settings like barbershops, taverns, and markets. It fosters open discussions about gender-based violence (GBV), HIV, and sexual health, encouraging men to become advocates for gender equality.
The government of Malawi is one of the Commitment Makers under the Generation Equality initiative. Under the Economic Justice and rights Action Coalition, the Government commits to adopt policies and implement programs aimed at reducing and redistributing unpaid care work through adopting a paternity leave policy, adopting a policy that will make care work visible and accessible, as well as committing to closing the gender gaps through the adoption of a 30% quota for women and women-owned businesses in the Procurement Act.
As a Leader of the Action Coalition on Feminist Movements and Leadership, the government of Malawi commits to allocating adequate resources to national gender equality mechanisms, especially for feminist movements, women’s rights, and women and youth-led grassroots organizations including informal groups to advance gender equality. It also commits to supporting feminist movements that promote the active participation of women and girls, boys, and men to advance gender equality, peace, and human rights by creating and sustaining a conducive environment for them to carry out their work in advancing gender equality Commitment Makers.
Achievements of Generation Equality in Malawi
- Women's movements have been established, with women increasingly taking up leadership roles in government, politics, and grassroots committees. Capacity-building forums for women have been developed within councils, along with the creation of a vibrant Young Feminist Network.
- The Macroeconomics Alliance Malawi Chapter has been formed, placing GEF at the core of its initiatives. Communities have been sensitized on GEF during the observance of international days such as International Women's Day (IWD), International Rural Women's Day (IRWD), and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Under the Spotlight Initiative, GEF has been integrated into women's movement-building efforts that address GBV, harmful cultural practices, and the promotion of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Additionally, GEF was promoted during CSW 67, with CSW 67 Africa held in Malawi.
- In the area of Economic Justice and Rights (EJR), the government has established the Women Economic Empowerment Fund and increased funding to the Ministry responsible for Gender to support Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) activities. It has also partnered with UN Women and other organizations to implement inclusive events, such as the Intergenerational Dialogue, which drew participation from over 3,000 people.
- Malawi has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving 50% parliamentary representation of women and has expanded platforms for intergenerational collaboration, reflecting its dedication to gender equality and empowering young women across all sectors.
- The opening of the First Women Trade Center has provided women entrepreneurs with a unique space to connect and explore diverse business opportunities.
- The Education Plus Initiative has evolved into a strong platform for empowering young women and girls across sub-Saharan Africa.
- Engagements with the private sector have led to significant support for women through mentorship programs, STEM initiatives, and business skills development.
Commitment Makers
In addition to the Government of Malawi being a key Commitment Maker, various stakeholders are actively contributing to the realization of Generation Equality goals through different Action Coalitions. Several organizations and partners are currently engaged in this global movement within the country.
White Ribbon Alliance Malawi, is a Commitment Maker working under the Bodily Autonomy & SRHR Action Coalition. In its efforts to reach more women and adolescent girls across Malawi, the Alliance has committed to expanding its network of registered civil society organizations (CSOs) to cover all districts. This expansion aims to empower CSOs to lead inclusive engagement efforts with women and adolescent girls, regardless of status, sexual orientation, income level, or geographic location. The Alliance is also dedicated to strengthening the capacity of its staff and members to effectively engage women and adolescent girls from marginalized groups, including those from indigenous communities, individuals living with disabilities, those in humanitarian settings, and people who are young, trans, intersex, or non-binary.
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