As Malawi gears up for the 16 September General Elections, a coalition of independent female political aspirants is seeking approximately K500 million to fund their political journey including covering nomination fees and campaign related expenses.

The group, operating under the banner of Independent Women Aspirants, is made up of 100 female candidates — 75 percent of whom are eyeing parliamentary seats, while the remaining 25 percent are targeting positions as ward councillors.

Speaking in at a press briefing in Lilongwe yesterday, group chairlady Pilirani Buleya said the members are undertaking various fundraising activities, but emphasized that additional support from well-wishers and stakeholders is still urgently needed.

Buleya, who is aspiring for the Parliamentary seat in Lilongwe Nkhoma Constituency said people should help more women to take up political positions adding they have potential to serve Malawians better.

According to her, increasing the number of women in political leadership is not just about representation, but about achieving better governance outcomes.

Said Buleya: “This is not just about elections. It’s about empowering dependable leaders. Women have proven to be responsible, transparent, and connected to grassroots communities — qualities this country needs now more than ever.” 

MEC set the nomination fees for female aspirants at K1,250,000 for parliamentary candidates and K200,000 for ward councillors — half of what their male contenders are supposed to pay, as a way of encouraging more women to join the race. 

During the briefing, the group said, all well meaning Malawians could deposit money to the following FDH Bank account details: Account Name: Independent Women Aspirants; Account Number: 1970100117056, City Centre Branch.

Meanwhile, political analyst Professor Nandin Patel has noted that while the push for more women in politics is commendable, success will require a mix of structural support and strategic planning.

“Achieving gender equality in politics calls for deliberate, targeted support for women — not just rhetoric,” said Patel. “However, women aspirants must also be innovative in their fundraising. Diversifying income sources will improve their campaign resilience and sustainability.”