Proposed Menstrual Leave Sparks Debate in Malawi

Malawi: Some Malawians are expressing concerns that the proposed menstrual leave for women, being promoted by some feminists, could discourage employers from hiring women in the country, writes Thulani Afrika.

In a recent interview, 90% of those interviewed in Mzuzu expressed reservations about the proposal, stating that women already have many leave privileges that are often unpopular with employers.

The comments followed the revelation that feminists are advocating for the inclusion of menstrual leave in labour laws.

Earlier this week, BBC Focus on Africa published an article about a Nigerian tech company, Klasha, which is said to have introduced a leave policy for its female employees due to menstruation.

Charity Msiska Kayuni, a primary school teacher in Mzuzu, sees both sides of the issue.

In Malawian labour laws, women are already entitled to three months of paid maternity leave, and health officials frequently urge employers to allow women time off to breastfeed their babies.

The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, which is responsible for promoting and protecting the welfare of women and children in Malawi, also urges employers to create a supportive environment for women.

However, the minister was not available for comment on the menstrual leave proposal when we went to press.

The debate on this issue continues to be heated as more people offer their opinions.