The Women' Manifesto Movement has launched the second edition of the Women's Manifesto ahead of the 16 September general elections with a call for proper implementation of guiding policies in promoting women.

Speaking during the launch, British High Commissioner to Malawi, Fiona Ritchie, has singled out financial constraints, electoral violence and cultural norms as challenges that hinder women seeking political positions in the country.

Ritchie disclosed that women continue to face challenges such as lack of support which needs to be ironed out.

The women rights advocates have singled out the need to empower women for them to take up leadership positions.

The ambassador then called for the proper implementation of policies and promises that promote the rights of women in the country for the country to benefit politcally.

Lingalire Mihowa, who is the country director for Oxfam, says the women's manifesto will condemn any electoral violence targeted at women ahead of the polls, adding 600 women have already shown interest to contest for the position of legislator and ward councilors.

"This signifies the huge interest women have for political positions in the upcoming polls, but we need to see more women compete in all positions not just the legislators' positions.

Chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Dr. Grace Naledu Mandisa Pandor says leaders must be compelled to integrate the Women's Manifesto into their policies.

"We need to strengthen the country's laws by utilizing these policies that have been developed by these women. This is a good document for the promotion of women across Malawi, so as to increase their representation," said Dr. Pandor.