This article was written by Nellie Nyirenda
Empowering Women in Malawi’s Informal Economy
As women across the world commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), the Malawi Union for Informal Sector (MUFIS) organized a workshop aimed at empowering women working in the informal economy at Blantyre Lodge.
The workshop was held under the theme: “Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, including by promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices, and addressing structural barriers.”
Amplifying Women’s Voices.
Speaking during the event, Project Coordinator for the Hotel Food Processing and Catering Workers Union (HFPCWU), Zione Nyirenda, said the day is significant as it celebrates and highlights the vital role women play in the global and national economy.
“This day is very important because it celebrates women’s voices and their contributions to society. In the past, women did not always have the opportunity to be heard, but today we recognize their importance and achievements,” said Nyirenda.
Nyirenda also encouraged women to support one another in their businesses and workplaces by sharing opportunities and important information that can help them grow economically.
The Call for Economic Investment.
Executive General Secretary for the Malawi Union for Informal Sector, Mwanda Chiwambala, said Malawi needs to invest more in women, especially those working in the informal economy, in order to address economic challenges facing the country.
For the country to develop, we need to actively engage women in economic activities. I am urging the government to support women through access to loans and financial assistance so that they can improve their businesses and transform their lives,” said Chiwambala.
Knowledge Sharing and Skill Building.
One of the participants, small-scale business owner Eliza Samson, thanked MUFIS for organizing the workshop, saying it had equipped them with valuable knowledge on how to improve their businesses.
“We have commemorated this day in style and we are very thankful to MUFIS staff for inviting us and providing this training. It has helped us gain a lot of knowledge that will help us grow our businesses,” said Samson.
The workshop included group discussions, assignments, dancing, and singing as part of the celebration and learning process.
Strengthening Advocacy and Safety.
Participants were also trained in various areas including leadership, organizing and recruitment, collective bargaining, HIV and AIDS awareness, as well as occupational safety and health.The workshop brought together women from different informal sector businesses as well as domestic workers. It aimed at strengthening their capacity to advocate for their rights while improving their economic activities.