People listen to the messages
With Malawi’s general elections set for September 16, 2025, a coalition of five organizations in Thyolo district has launched a joint initiative to promote peace, unity and civic awareness among voters.
The consortium—comprising Chipembere Community Development Organization (CCDO), the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust, the Public Affairs Committee (PAC), the District Peace and Unity Committee and Tikumbusane Drama Group—is conducting outreach campaigns across the district to ensure informed and peaceful citizen participation in the electoral process.
On Friday, the group held civic engagement sessions in Thyolo Central, Thava and Masambanjati constituencies. The events featured interactive performances and discussions aimed at discouraging political violence, vote-buying and tribalism, while encouraging issue-based campaigning, tolerance and women’s participation in politics.
Speaking during the campaign, CCDO Executive Director Dalitso Chiwayula stressed that peaceful elections depend on the active involvement of all citizens, especially women and young people.
He highlighted that CCDO’s peacebuilding work aligns with its ongoing project, Progressive Peace Building and Conflict Prevention among Girls and Women in Rural Communities of Thyolo, supported by the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund through UN Women Malawi.
“We cannot talk about democracy without women’s voices at the table. This election period often comes with increased violence and intimidation—especially toward women and girls.
Through our community peace structures and civic education, we’re ensuring that women can safely participate, lead, and make their voices heard,” said Chiwayula.
Echoing this sentiment, Moses Kaunda, the District Program Officer for NICE Trust, urged citizens to engage wisely and peacefully throughout the electoral process.
“We are reminding people that democracy is not about fighting for a party; it’s about making informed choices for the future of the nation. Mark your ballot properly, say no to vote-buying, and avoid divisive rhetoric that can tear communities apart,” Kaunda said.
Kaunda further encouraged citizens to focus on issues such as development, healthcare and education when evaluating candidates, rather than being swayed by political affiliations or handouts.
As the election approaches, the consortium plans to scale up its outreach activities in more constituencies across Thyolo, combining civic education, cultural performances, and grassroots dialogue to foster peace and national unity.
A participant receives a T-shirt with messages promoting women’s empowerment and ending GBV.