The Directorate of women in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP),led by Honourable Mary Thom Navicha’s,MP,invites all DPP women,Blue ladies and young Blue professional ladies to the Lilongwe women’s conference scheduled for Saturday,15 February 2025,at Area3. Twink Jones Gadama engages Hon Mary Navicha in a hard talk Interview.
Twink Jones Gadama: Hon.Mary Navicha,thanks for joining me today. What inspired you to organize the Lilongwe women’s conference?
Hon. Mary Navicha: Thank you for having me, Twink. The inspiration behind the Lilongwe Women’s Conference is to create a platform where women from different backgrounds and ages can come together, share experiences, and empower each other. As the National Director of Women for the DPP, I believe it’s essential to foster a sense of unity and solidarity among women, and this conference is a step in that direction.
Twink Jones Gadama: As the National Director of Women for the DPP, how do you envision this conference empowering women within the party and beyond?
Hon. Mary Navicha: This conference will provide women with the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, share their experiences, and learn from each other. We’ve lined up a range of exciting activities, including workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Our goal is to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to take on leadership roles within the party and beyond.
Twink Jones Gadama: What are some of the key issues that you hope to address during the conference, and how do you plan to tackle them?
Hon. Mary Navicha: We’ll be addressing a range of critical issues, including women’s economic empowerment, education, healthcare, and political participation. We’ve assembled a team of experts who will lead workshops and panel discussions on these topics. We’ll also be launching a mentorship program that will pair young women with experienced leaders who can provide guidance and support.
Twink Jones Gadama: How do you think this conference will contribute to the advancement of women’s rights and gender equality in Malawi?
Hon. Mary Navicha: This conference is a critical step towards promoting women’s rights and gender equality in Malawi. By empowering women and providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to take on leadership roles, we’re helping to create a more just and equitable society. We’re also sending a powerful message that women’s voices matter and that we’re committed to creating a brighter future for all Malawians.
Twink Jones Gadama: As a woman in leadership, what message do you have for young women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
Hon. Mary Navicha: My message to young women is simple: believe in yourself, work hard, and never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Remember that leadership is not just about holding a position of power; it’s about serving others and making a positive impact in your community.
Twink Jones Gadama: Can you share with us some of the successes you’ve achieved as the National Director of Women for the DPP, and how you plan to build on those successes?
Hon. Mary Navicha: As the National Director of Women for the DPP, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality within the party. We’ve established a network of women’s groups across the country, provided training and mentorship programs for women, and advocated for policies that promote women’s rights. Looking ahead, we plan to build on these successes by expanding our programs and services, strengthening our partnerships with other organizations, and continuing to advocate for women’s rights and gender equality.
Twink Jones Gadama: How do you plan to ensure that the conference is inclusive and representative of women from diverse backgrounds and ages?
Hon. Mary Navicha: We’ve taken a number of steps to ensure that the conference is inclusive and representative of women from diverse backgrounds and ages. We’ve established a diverse organizing committee that includes women from different regions, ages, and backgrounds. We’ve also made sure that our program is inclusive and reflects the diversity of women’s experiences in Malawi.
Twink Jones Gadama: What role do you think men can play in supporting women’s empowerment and gender equality, and how can they be engaged in this process?
Hon. Mary Navicha: Men play a critical role in supporting women’s empowerment and gender equality. They can serve as allies and advocates, using their positions of power and influence to promote women’s rights and challenge patriarchal attitudes and behaviors. We encourage men to join us in this effort and to work alongside us to create a more just and equitable society.
Twink Jones Gadama: Looking ahead to the 2025 elections, how do you think the DPP can leverage the energy and momentum from this conference to advance women’s interests and promote gender equality?
Hon. Mary Navicha: The DPP is committed to promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality, and we believe that this conference will provide a critical boost to our efforts. We plan to leverage the energy and momentum from this conference to mobilize women and promote their interests in the run-up to the 2025 elections. We’ll also be using the conference as an opportunity to launch our campaign for women’s empowerment and gender equality, and to promote our policies and programs that support women’s rights.
Twink Jones Gadama: Finally, what’s your vision for the future of women in politics and leadership in Malawi, and how do you see the DPP contributing to that vision?
Hon. Mary Navicha: My vision for the future of women in politics and leadership in Malawi is one where women are equally represented and empowered to take on leadership roles. I envision a future where women’s voices are heard and valued, and where they are able to contribute to decision-making processes at all levels. As the National Director of Women for the DPP, I believe that our party has a critical role to play in achieving this vision. We will continue to promote women’s empowerment and gender equality, and to provide opportunities for women to develop their leadership skills and take on leadership roles. We will also continue to advocate for policies and programs that support women’s rights and promote gender equality. Together, I believe that we can create a brighter future for women in Malawi and ensure that they are able to reach their full potential.
