The Malawi National Association of the Deaf (MANAD) Women’s Executive Committee convened in Liwonde to discuss and review the accomplishments, challenges, and activities of 2024. This pivotal meeting also served to draft the activity plan for 2025. Beyond strategic planning, the committee organized a practical and empowering juice-making training session held on December 29 and 30, 2024.
Six committee members participated in the training, where they learned how to produce mango juice and fizzy beverages. These women are expected to extend their newfound skills by training members across MANAD’s district branches, fostering knowledge-sharing and community empowerment.
This initiative aligns with MANAD’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, a core organizational objective supported by the Finnish Association of the Deaf (FAD). FAD, a steadfast partner in MANAD’s various project activities, emphasizes the importance of equipping women with skills that enhance their economic participation and influence.
The training aims to increase women’s power and influence by promoting women-led enterprises, enabling them to thrive economically. Both MANAD and FAD strongly believe that women’s empowerment positively impacts societal and household well-being. Enhanced access to education, social services, asset ownership, and decision-making for women and girls can significantly reduce poverty.
Looking ahead, MANAD plans to extend similar training opportunities to more Deaf women nationwide. Future sessions will cover skills such as farming, scone-making, and dough preparation, among others. Additionally, MANAD intends to focus on Deaf youth, ensuring inclusivity and broadening the reach of empowerment initiatives.
This program is a testament to MANAD’s unwavering commitment to fostering a brighter and more equitable future for Malawi’s Deaf communities.
