By Donald Zimba

Lilongwe, March 5, Mana:  The Deputy Minister of Gender, Halima Daud, visited Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Lilongwe today, in collaboration with UN Women and the Malawi Red Cross, to kick-start activities leading up to International Women’s Day on March 8.

Speaking during the visit, the Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of reaching out to women in hospitals who may not be able to join public celebrations.

“As women who are in the hospital, they cannot go out and celebrate, so the effort to come in and celebrate with them is what Women’s Day is all about,” she said.

While visiting the Kangaroo Mother Care section at KCH, Daud highlighted the critical need for improved maternal health services. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment, alongside partners such as the Red Cross and UN Women, to ensuring that women receive the care they deserve and that the health sector remains strong and effective.

“We are celebrating International Women’s Day, and preparations are going well. In fact, we have already started today as a ministry, with a number of activities lined up,” Daud stated.

She commended UN Women and the Malawi Red Cross for their continued support.

UN Women Country Representative, Letty Chiwara also spoke at the event, underscoring the link between maternal health and gender equality.

“Gender equality is a human rights issue, which is why we are here today as part of International Women’s Day. If we have safe motherhood, that directly translates into a safer community,” she said.

She acknowledged the progress Malawi has made but stressed that more work needs to be done.

“Yes, some strides have been made, but we can do more. The conditions for maternal health can improve, and there is so much more we can do to ensure that women receive the care they need,” she said.

“Women are the very foundation of development and sustainable communities,” Chiwara added, “No mother should have to die while giving life to the world.”

She emphasized the importance of collaboration between women and men in advancing maternal health and gender equality.

“We are honoured to be here. It is a team effort both women and men must work hand in hand towards safe motherhood. We are here to shine a light on maternal health and safety. Safe motherhood is not a privilege; it is a right,” she said, while also commending the Deputy Minister for her dedication.

The International Women’s Day activities will continue in Blantyre, where events celebrating women’s achievements and several training sessions involving approximately 65 sectors will take place.

This year’s theme is “Collectively, We Can Accelerate Action for Gender Equality”.