As Women’s Month draws to a close, we at Tingathe reflect on the steps we have taken to empower women and promote gender equality within our community. During the month, we have been carrying out initiatives aimed at celebrating women’s achievements, challenging societal norms, and fostering inclusive communities.

One of the highlights of our activities was the International Women’s Day workshop held in Mtandire on March 8. During this event, we had the privilege of listening to diverse success stories from women who are contributing to the development of their communities in Lilongwe. The stories were inspiring, showcasing women’s resilience, innovation, and leadership across different spheres, from entrepreneurship to child protection.

Moreover, the workshop served as a platform for discussions on how to advance gender equality and dismantle entrenched social and cultural barriers that hinder women’s participation in developmental activities. Through collective brainstorming and commitment, we affirmed our dedication to investing in women and championing a world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

Another initiative undertaken by Tingathe during Women’s Month was the orientation for the Tingathe Geni Programme on March 14. This program is designed to empower vulnerable communities, with a special emphasis on supporting women in micro and small businesses. We provide knowledge and skills in personal leadership, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, as well as training in eco-friendly charcoal briquette and cooking oil production. The aim is to equip women with the tools they need to thrive economically. The commencement of classes on March 18 saw 85 women participating, signaling a promising start to their journey towards economic empowerment.

As we look back on Women’s Month, several key takeaways emerge. Firstly, the importance of amplifying women’s voices and recognizing their contributions cannot be overstated. Secondly, addressing gender equality requires concerted efforts to dismantle ingrained societal norms and biases. Lastly, investing in women’s education and economic opportunities is important for the promotion of inclusive and prosperous communities.

Moving forward, it is essential for our nation to collectively prioritize initiatives that empower women. This includes implementing policies that ensure equal access to education and economic opportunities, challenging stereotypes, and fostering supportive environments for women to thrive in all aspects of life.

At Tingathe, we remain committed to our mission of empowering women and creating a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.