Miniskirts ban at Malawi Savings Bank: Revealing clothing can be offensive

The once government-owned Malawi Savings Bank (MSB) is expected to change its name to FDH Bank after sale caused a lot of controversy last year, has banned all female employees from wearing miniskirts because bosses fear their employees’ attire could be offensive to some families.

In a memo to staff dated February 5, 2016 seen by Nyasa Times signed by  head of human resources Richard Kunjawa, the bank warned female staff that skirts must be of “reasonable” length and also told male workers to ensure they are dressed appropriately.

The leaked memo, addressed to the bank’s branch managers, section managers, and Exco members, advised employees to dress “in appropriate business dress attiree.”

Female staff were told “inappropriate” clothing for the bank included  “garment that are  unnecessarily revealing by women”  such as miniskirts, sleeveless blouses, immoderate and multi coloured hair styles or dreadlocks.

The bank also warned against “uncoordinated dress style or head gear.”

MSB ban in inappropriate fashion is apply to both genders.

Men are instructed against saggy trousers – the sort that are slung so low they reveal half the boxers beneath – and shabby dressing.

The bank   justifies the ban, saying it is about respect.

But one bank worker, who did not want to be named, said: “What is a miniskirt? Are they going to come around with a tape measure?”