LocationsMalawi Highlights Gender-Responsive Climate Solutions at COP30
November 17, 2025
UNDP Regional Service Centre for Africa (RSCA) Director Dr. Matthias Naab opened the session.
Malawi showcased compelling evidence of how gender-responsive policies and community-led initiatives are strengthening climate resilience during a high-level side event at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP30 in Brazil.
The event, held at the Liberia Pavilion, was organised by UNDP’s Regional Service Centre for Africa (RSCA), UNDP Malawi, and the Ministry of Gender.
UNDP Emphasises Urgency of Gender-Responsive Action
UNDP RSCA Director Dr. Matthias Naab opened the session by highlighting Malawi’s progress in translating global gender equality commitments into national climate strategies. He pointed out that the country’s National Climate Change Gender Action Plan (NCCGAP) aligns with the UNDP Global Gender Equality Strategy and shows how targeted investments can protect women and girls from escalating climate risks.
Naab referenced the disproportionate impacts of Cyclones Freddy, Ana, and Gombe, which have increased child-headed households, disrupted education, and deepened poverty. Despite these challenges, he praised women’s groups and community cooperatives for their critical role in recovery.
UNDP Malawi Presents Evidence from Field Projects
Juliet Chimwaga Sibale, Gender and Development Specialist at UNDP Malawi.
The technical presentation was delivered by Juliet Chimwaga Sibale, Gender and Development Specialist at UNDP Malawi.
She shared findings from two case studies demonstrating how women are leading climate resilience efforts at the community level:
- Women and Youth Empowerment Projects in Kasungu and Mzimba, where climate-smart agriculture and leadership training are enhancing household food security.
- Powering Gender Equality initiatives in Rumphi and Dedza, where solar mini-grids, inclusive financing, and productive-use appliances are enabling women entrepreneurs to increase incomes and boost resilience.
Sibale emphasised that women’s access to technology, clean energy, and financial tools is accelerating local development outcomes.
Panel Highlights Critical Policy Priorities
The panel discussion showcased evidence of how gender-responsive policies and community-led initiatives are strengthening climate resilience.
A panel discussion brought together senior officials and civil society leaders to reflect on policy gaps and opportunities.
Fred Simwaka, Deputy Director for Gender at the Ministry of Gender, said that the NCCGAP’s priority areas—particularly gender-responsive budgeting and stronger institutional coordination—are essential for progressing further. He stressed the importance of strengthening grassroots structures such as women’s groups and VSLs.
Hendricks Mgodie, Chief Public Health Officer at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the severe health impacts of climate shocks on women and children.
He called for better integration of gender considerations into health emergency plans and long-term climate strategies.
Malango Kayira, a gender activist and advocate for young women’s leadership, noted that climate shocks continue to expose girls and young women to increased risks, including early marriage and limited access to education.
She urged for programmes that promote youth leadership and ensure young women’s voices are reflected in policy.
Call for Increased Investment Towards 2030
Speakers agreed on the importance of expanding Malawi’s successful gender-responsive climate initiatives through:
- Increased financing for gender-responsive climate action
- Institutionalising sector-specific gender policies
- Improving national data systems
- Expanding inclusive energy and technology solutions
- Building deeper partnerships across government, civil society, and development actors
UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Malawi in scaling these approaches in line with the next phase of the UNFCCC Gender Action Plan.