Malawi Pres. Joyce Banda tops Africa’s women achievers – UK newspaper
A reputable newspaper of the United Kingdom (UK), The Guardian has rated President Joyce Banda first in Africa’s top women achievers.
The publication asked its readers to name women across the continent who deserve recognition.
Out of the top 25, Banda was ranked number one.
The Malawi leader was seconded by former South Africa’s president and freedom fighter Nelson Mandela’s wife, Gracia Marshell who was followed by Nigeria’s finance minister Ngozi Okonjo Iweala whose mother was abducted outside her home in December last year.
The award was part of the publication’s commemoration of the Women’s World International day.
In a brief about Banda, the first woman to be President of Malawi and an award winning activist, the publication said she has earned praises for moves such as cutting her salary by 30 percent and auctioning the Presidential jet bought by her predecessor Bingu wa Mutharika.
“However her failure to make good her promise to repeal anti-homosexuality laws has drawn criticism,” reads the brief on President Banda.
In her reaction, President Banda said the award proves the relentless efforts her administration is making to make Malawi a better place to live.
Making her address to an annual general meeting for Market Women’s Activities in Development (Mwai) , Banda said the accolade which came as a surprise to her is a sign of a purpose God has for the nation.
“To top the list of 25 powerful women of Africa is God’s grace and the nation needs to take pride in its achievements,” said President Banda attracting ululation from women who jam-packed Comesa hall in Blantyre on Saturday.
Banda explained that she was surprised to hear s the world celebrated the International Women’s Day on Friday, that The Guardian newspaper had recognized her efforts through the accolade which she said was the nation’s pride.
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