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Mediation

Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund Empowers Malawian Women in Peacebuilding Efforts

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In southern Malawi, a quiet revolution is unfolding as women step into traditional men's roles as mediators, advocates, and leaders in peacebuilding. Supported by the Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) through UN Women, these women are transforming communities and challenging long-held norms. In the Mbenje area, women's movements like Chisomo, Yankho, and Tadala are rewriting the narrative. They have become central figures in resolving conflicts and promoting peaceful elections.

Key Takeaways:

  • Women in Malawi are taking on traditional men's roles as mediators, advocates, and leaders in peacebuilding, supported by the Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) through UN Women.
  • In the Mbenje area, women's movements like Chisomo, Yankho, and Tadala have written 17 Memoranda of Understanding with local chiefs, ensuring women's inclusion in decision-making and conflict resolution.
  • The work of women peacebuilders in Machinga and Phalombe has led to the resolution of 42 conflicts, ranging from land disputes to child marriage cases, since December 2024.
  • More than 896 women and girls have been empowered, with 11 now holding formal leadership roles, as a result of the efforts of women peacebuilders.
  • Women peacebuilders in Malawi have empowered over 1600 individuals through their peacebuilding efforts.
  • Ednah Zuze, a trained facilitator, has helped mediate dozens of disputes and changed perceptions by including people with disabilities and faith leaders in her group's inclusive approach.
  • Lezita Mukhiwa, a 25-year-old councilor aspirant, is breaking barriers by challenging political exclusion and advocating for youth empowerment in Thyolo.
  • Malawi's women peacebuilders are a blueprint for similar efforts worldwide, showing that when women lead, peace follows.

Statistics:

  • 17 Memoranda of Understanding have been written between women's movements and local chiefs in the Mbenje area.
  • Since December 2024, 42 conflicts have been resolved in Machinga and Phalombe.
  • More than 896 women and girls have been empowered.
  • 11 women are now holding formal leadership roles.
  • 609 women, 200 men, and 91 young people have been reached and assisted by Ednah Zuze and her group since March 2025.
  • MK380,000 ($216) has been earned by Brenda Charly from selling tomatoes, enabling her to pay school fees for her children.
  • Lezita Mukhiwa has mentored 50 young girls and women in her community.

Sources:

  • APO Group on behalf of UN Women -- Africa
  • UN Women
  • Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF)
  • Youth Coalition for the Consolidation of Democracy (YCD)
  • Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO)

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