We Choose Peace- Women, Youths in Mangochi lead way ahead of 2025 elections

As the sun rose over the lakeshore district of Mangochi, a quiet determination filled the air. In the heart of Mangochi town—within the jurisdiction of Senior Chief Mponda—a group of women and youths gathered. But this was no political rally. It was a powerful pledge for something far more lasting: PEACE!.

They are part of a growing grassroots network under the Peacebuilding Capacity Project, a community-led initiative by the Centre for Social Concern (CfSC).

With support from the Embassy of Ireland, the project aims to instill a culture of non-violence and civic responsibility in a district often viewed as politically sensitive and, at times, volatile during election periods.

As Malawi prepares for the tripartite elections set for September 16, 2025, these ordinary citizens are taking extraordinary steps: putting peace first.

“We are tired of being used as weapons.”

Among the youth gathered is Kassim Kasinde, a young man from Senior Chief Mponda’s area. He’s witnessed how political campaigns often exploit young people.

“During the last elections, many of us were paid to attend rallies or even disrupt other gatherings,” Kasinde recalls. “Some of my friends ended up in police cells. I don’t want that for my community again. This time, I choose peace.”

Today, Kasinde is part of a youth-led dialogue circle that meets weekly to discuss political tolerance, responsible social media use, and community safety.

He says the project has transformed his understanding of what it means to be an active, peaceful citizen.

“Instead of being used as weapons, we want to be protectors of our communities,” he says proudly.

Women reclaim their voices

On the women’s front, Mercy Mazimbo, 38, is a leader of a mothers’ group from T/A Chimwala. A mother of five, Mercy speaks with conviction about women’s role in shaping peace.

“When conflict comes, it’s women who suffer the most. We lose our businesses, our children drop out of school, and health services become difficult to access,” she says. “So why shouldn’t we be the ones leading peace efforts?”

Through CfSC’s training in civic education and conflict resolution, Mercy has found purpose. Her group now organizes village-level peace campaigns, often using traditional songs and storytelling to spread messages of unity.

Yet, Mercy is realistic about the challenges.

“We are committed, but getting to some villages is a big problem,” she says. “Transport is our biggest challenge. Some areas are just too far to reach on foot, especially for older women.”

Her concern is echoed across the project: community buy-in is strong, but logistical limitations—especially poor transport—threaten to limit its full reach.

“Peace is not seasonal. It is a lifestyle.”

In T/A Chowe, Khadija Adam has taken her role as a peace champion beyond workshops. She uses everyday spaces—particularly her local Village Savings and Loans (known locally as banki nkhonde)—to share peace messages with fellow women.

“Some people think peacebuilding is for NGOs. But it starts with us—the people,” she says. “I talk to my fellow women during meetings. Some are angry about politics, others are just confused. I remind them that violence won’t fix anything.”

With only her smartphone and her voice, Khadija has become a mobile peace ambassador, reminding her peers that peace must be constant—not just during election time.

“Peace is not seasonal. It is a lifestyle,” she says. “If we want jobs, education, and good hospitals, we must protect our communities from chaos.”

Embassy of Ireland: “We are encouraged”

During the monitoring visit, a team from the Embassy of Ireland observed the project’s progress and community impact first-hand.

Chikondi Madikiza, Governance Advisor at the Embassy, expressed satisfaction with what she saw.

“We are deeply encouraged by what we have seen,” she said. “These are not just paper workshops. They are real efforts with real people making real change.”

Madikiza reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting peace and governance efforts in Malawi and said Mangochi’s approach could serve as a model for other districts.

CfSC: “We must reach further.”

Tobias Jere, Program Manager at CfSC, believes the project’s strength lies in local ownership and sustained dialogue. But he admits the transport barrier remains an obstacle to scale.

“We are empowering women and youth because they are key to social change,” Jere said.

“Through dialogue circles, radio discussions, and civic forums, we are building a culture of peace and tolerance.”

“But we acknowledge the logistical gaps, and we’re exploring ways to improve mobility so our teams can reach more people.”

Local Authority: “Peace is a foundation for development.”

Enerst Kadzokoya, Chief Executive Officer for Mangochi Municipal Council, commended the efforts of CfSC and its partners, emphasizing that peace is a crucial pillar for any meaningful development.

“As a council, we believe peace is not just a social issue—it is a development issue,” Kadzokoya said. “Without peace, our service delivery suffers. Schools, markets, and health facilities all depend on a stable environment.”

He praised the role that women and youths are playing in promoting tolerance and dialogue at the grassroots level, and pledged the council’s continued collaboration.

“We are ready to support these community peace structures. We encourage more stakeholders to come in, especially with support in areas like transport and communication, so that these efforts can reach every corner of the municipality,” he added.

Kadzokoya also urged political parties and candidates to embrace peaceful conduct as the election season nears, reminding them that “a peaceful election is a win for everyone, regardless of who takes office.”

A path forward

As September 16 approaches, the message from Mangochi is clear: peace is everyone’s responsibility. Despite the roadblocks—geographic, political, and financial—the voices of youth and women are growing louder, calling for dialogue over division.

Back at the meeting, as the session ends, Kasinde, Mercy, and Khadija join hands in a symbolic circle.

“We don’t have much,” Mercy says. “But we have our voices. And we will use them for peace.”

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