By Chifundo Mulekano
Stakeholders have called for sustained efforts to promote mental health awareness among young women in Malawi, warning that progress made during the Women’s Month must translate into long-term change.
Mental Health Advocate, Nyokase Madise, said in an interview on Monday that while the country is making strides, more work remains to ensure young women are fully supported in their well-being.
“Malawi is moving in the right direction in terms of advancing mental health awareness for young women, particularly in the area of self-care. Young women are learning that it is okay to put themselves first and do things they actually enjoy rather than being pressured by societal expectations,” she said.
Madise noted that although Women’s Month has helped amplify conversations around women’s issues, its impact can be mixed, particularly for young women who may feel excluded from mainstream narratives of success.
“Women’s Month definitely acts as a good jump start for celebrating womanity, but it can also affect young women’s self-esteem if they’re not on those lists of women who are doing ‘big things’ or being recognised publicly,” she said.
Cybersecurity expert, Tacreema Chikwatu, emphasised that while initiatives like Women’s Month are important, consistent and practical support is needed to increase women’s participation in technology.
“There is progress but it needs to be consistent. We need to move from celebrating women to actively supporting women by prioritising mentorship programs and funding opportunities for women-led tech initiatives,” she said.
Chikwatu highlighted the growing need for stronger protection in digital spaces, noting that women often face targeted online risks such as harassment and cyber abuse.
