Jones Gadama of MaraviPost had the privilege of sitting down for an exclusive interview with Mary Thom Navicha, the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability, and Social Welfare in Malawi.
Minister Navicha has been a beacon of hope and progress in advocating for vulnerable groups, especially women, children, and persons with disabilities.
In this candid conversation, she opens up about her work, vision, and the inspiring leadership of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika that has supported her ministry. Excerpts.
Jones: Minister Navicha, thank you for joining us today. To start, could you share a bit about your role and what motivates you in your work as Minister of Gender, Children, Disability, and Social Welfare?
Navicha: Thank you, Jones. It’s a pleasure to be here. Serving as Minister is both a great honor and a profound responsibility. What motivates me daily is the opportunity to improve lives—especially those who have historically faced exclusion and hardship. I am committed to ensuring that gender equality, children’s rights, and disability inclusion are central to Malawi’s development agenda.
Jones: You have been very vocal about ending gender-based violence. What key strategies is your ministry implementing to tackle this issue?
Navicha: We are taking a multi-pronged approach that includes community education, strengthening legal frameworks, and supporting survivors with social services. We also engage men and boys as allies, because lasting change requires everyone’s involvement. Our campaigns emphasize zero tolerance for all forms of violence, including online abuse.
Jones: Malawi has made strides in disability rights under your leadership. Can you highlight some impactful initiatives?
Navicha: Certainly. We’ve launched nationwide awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote disability inclusion. We are also working on improving accessible infrastructure in schools and public spaces. The Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) is empowering many vulnerable households, including those headed by persons with disabilities, giving them a lifeline to basic needs and dignity.
Jones: How do you ensure that children’s rights are protected in this digital age?
Navicha: Protecting children online is a priority. We collaborate with tech companies, educators, and parents to raise awareness about online safety. We also advocate for laws that safeguard children from exploitation and abuse on digital platforms while promoting their access to educational resources.
Jones: Your ministry works closely with various stakeholders. How important is this collaboration?
Navicha: It’s vital. No one ministry or organization can address these complex issues alone. We partner with civil society, international agencies, traditional leaders, and communities to ensure our programs are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to real needs.
Jones: Many admire your leadership within the Democratic Progressive How do you balance these roles with your ministerial duties?
Navicha: Balancing these roles requires discipline and a clear focus on service. Whether in government or opposition, my priority remains the wellbeing of Malawians. My political experience enriches my understanding of diverse perspectives, which I bring to policymaking and advocacy.
Jones: How do you personally stay inspired and resilient amidst the challenges your ministry faces?
Navicha: My faith plays a central role. As a proud member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and active participant in the Dorcus Women Ministries, I find strength and guidance through prayer and fellowship. Serving others is a calling that renews my spirit.
Jones: Speaking of faith, could you share how your religious values influence your approach to leadership and service?
Navicha: My faith instills values of compassion, integrity, and humility. The Dorcus Women Ministries empower women spiritually and socially, which aligns perfectly with my mission to uplift women and vulnerable groups in Malawi. Faith reminds me that leadership is ultimately about servant-hood.
Jones: Looking at the broader picture, how would you describe the support from President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika towards your ministry’s goals?
Navicha: President Mutharika’s visionary leadership has been instrumental. First, his commitment to inclusive development ensures that persons with disabilities are not forgotten in national plans. Second, his support for social welfare programs like the SCTP has transformed lives. Third, his emphasis on gender equality has fostered an enabling environment for women’s empowerment across Malawi. I am deeply grateful for his trust and partnership.
Jones: Can you share a success story from your ministry that you feel particularly proud of?
Navicha: One story that stands out is the expansion of the Social Cash Transfer Programme, which has lifted thousands of vulnerable families out of extreme poverty, especially those caring for children with disabilities. Seeing mothers regain hope and children access education brings me immense joy.
Jones: What future initiatives can Malawians look forward to under your leadership?
Navicha: We are working on policies to mainstream disability inclusion in all sectors, expanding child protection services, and launching new campaigns against gender-based violence. We also plan to strengthen vocational training programs for persons with disabilities to enhance their economic participation.
Jones: How do you engage with women and youth in communities to ensure their voices are heard?
Navicha: We hold regular dialogues, workshops, and community forums. The Malawi Parliamentary Women’s Caucus also plays a pivotal role. Empowering women and youth to advocate for themselves is central to sustainable development.
Jones: With all you’ve accomplished, what advice would you give to young Malawians aspiring to public service?
Navicha: Stay grounded in your values, be persistent, and always put the people first. Leadership is about service, not self-gain. Education and faith can be powerful anchors in your journey.
Jones: Finally, Minister Navicha, how do you want Malawians to remember your tenure in this ministry?
Navicha: I hope to be remembered as a tireless advocate for equality and inclusion—a servant leader who worked with heart and humility to make Malawi a better place for all, especially the vulnerable. Together, we are building a nation where every person’s dignity is recognized.
Thank you, Minister Navicha, for your time and inspiring words. Your dedication truly embodies the spirit of service to Malawians.
Navicha: Welcome Jones and thanks for having me
