By Aisha Chiwaya

Salima, March 22, Mana: Women's Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) and the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) in partnership with Oxfam have trained NICE monitors to equip them with essential skills and knowledge for effective election monitoring ahead of the September 16 general elections.

Speaking during the training, on Friday in Salima, WOLREC Executive Director Maggie Kathewera emphasized the importance of equipping monitors with the necessary knowledge to ensure smooth and effective election monitoring.

"Monitors are an integral part of an electoral process, therefore this training will help them to sensitize communities on the hazards of violence against women," she said.

With funding from the European Union, the one-day training focused on the prevention and mitigation of Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE), monitoring and adherence to electoral laws and procedures.

NICE District Program Officer for Salima, Queen Mataya highlighted the crucial role NICE plays in mobilizing the masses for elections.

She expressed optimism that the training would enhance the effectiveness of their efforts across the six constituencies in Salima.

"NICE is a key stakeholder in voter mobilization and by training these monitors, we are ensuring that they have the skills and strategies needed to engage the public effectively," said Mataya.

She also voiced concerns over potential voter apathy and underscored the importance of mindset change ahead of the polls.

 "We are taking this training seriously because we want to address voter apathy. By starting early, we can ensure that by September 16, these monitors are ready to encourage hesitant voters to participate in the elections," she added.

 A participant from Chitala Ward in Salima Central West Constituency, Charles Sabawo, expressed gratitude for the training, acknowledging its role in preparing them for their responsibilities as NICE monitors ahead of the elections.