By: Shyra Nselema

Chiradzulu, April 5, Mana: National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust has urged women in Chiradzulu district to actively participate in the upcoming general election scheduled for September 2025.

Speaking in an interview with Malawi News Agency during District Advisory Forum (DAF) meeting held on Thursday, NICE Programmes Officer for Chiradzulu, Moses Kaunda said women's participation in elections is essential for inclusivity and development.

"As members of DAF you have a crucial role to play in sensitizing women to take part in general elections by not only voting but also contesting in various positions so that women concerns are represented," he said.

Chiradzulu has five constituencies with no female member of parliament in the current national assembly and has 10 wards with only one female councilor

He then reassured the DAF and the public that NICE Trust was prepared to work with various stakeholders to ensure that the 2025 elections are free, fair, and peaceful.

Kaunda also expressed concern over youth’s involvement in disrupting political campaigns, saying this is against principles of democracy and good governance

In his remarks, Group Village Head Mbalame applauded NICE Trust for organizing the DAF meeting, saying the meeting was ideal and relevant for members’ understanding on electoral processes.

Mbalame therefore expressed hope that Chiradzulu DAF will disseminate right information regarding elections to communities.

"Let me commend NICE for inviting us to this meeting because sometimes we just see organizations and stakeholders coming in our villages without engaging us. We will be able to sensitize our people on voter registration and the voting process," he said.

DAF comprises of representatives from district council, faith and traditional leaders, business community, civil society organizations, youths, Area Civic Education Coordinators among others.

DAF which meets quarterly works in close collaboration with the District Civic Education Officer to ensure successful implementation of NICE Trust’s programmes including electoral matters.