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The World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC) organised a virtual Ramadan lecture titled 'Muslim women's in Malawi: Roles, challenges and paths to empowerment'

The virtual session was held as part of the Council's Ramadan lecture series

The lecture featured Sefat Msosa, a journalist at the state broadcaster, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, who spoke about the role of Muslim women in Malawian society.

Msosa opened her remarks by emphasising that Muslim women play a vital role in Malawi, noting clear progress in their access to education and employment opportunities, and describing them as a cornerstone of society.

She also addressed the family and educational roles of Muslim women, stating that they play an important part in raising children to become responsible members of both the family and the wider community. She added that they also represent a significant workforce in the agricultural sector

Msosa highlighted the role of civil society organisations in Malawi, explaining that a number of institutions have worked to support women in building their lives and achieving greater independence in ways that enable them to learn and work.

The journalist added that women in Malawi contribute to da’wah efforts, as well as to health and social initiatives and public awareness campaigns on the risks of diseases

However, she noted that Muslim women in Malawi continue to face societal challenges. Despite their efforts, she said, employment opportunities available to them remain fewer than for others, and they still encounter discrimination, although the phenomenon has declined compared to the past.

She also spoke about changing societal attitudes in Malawi, stating that families have increasingly recognised the importance of educating daughters alongside sons and ensuring equality between them in education and rights

In conclusion, Sefat Msosa revealed that recent years have seen an expansion in girls’ schools in Malawi up to the secondary level, but stressed that more such schools are still needed.