By Suleman Chitera, Mtandire – Lilongwe
Former President of Malawi and leader of the People’s Party (PP), Joyce Banda, has underscored the need to empower young people and women, describing it as a key driver for national development.
Speaking on Tuesday during a skills training session in Mtandire, Lilongwe — organized by the Joyce Banda Foundation — Banda said Malawi’s future rests on creating opportunities that foster self-reliance among women and the youth.
“This country can only develop if we invest in its people, particularly women and the youth. That’s why we are here, training them in soap-making, cooking oil production, and body lotion manufacturing,” Banda said.
She highlighted her past initiatives, such as introducing motorcycle taxis (kabaza) and youth empowerment programs, which she said had transformed many lives.
In a bold revelation, Banda announced that her foundation has secured 100,000 job placements abroad for young Malawians across various sectors — an opportunity she urged the youth to embrace.
The former president is among the 17 presidential hopefuls who have officially expressed interest in contesting in Malawi’s highly anticipated September 16 elections.
“As a leader, I believe in creating platforms for our people to succeed. That is the Malawi we all want,” Banda added.
