ZEC Girls Brigade Conference Inspires 1,500 in Ntcheu!

Reported by Mustapha Omolabake Omowumi, Managing Editor | Sele Media Malawi.

The closing ceremony of the Zambezi Evangelical Church National Girls’ Brigade Conference is currently underway in Ntcheu District, drawing together more than 1,500 girls under the age of 18 from across Malawi under the theme “Stepping Into Purpose.”

The event, organized by the Zambezi Evangelical Church (ZEC), has become one of the largest youth-based Christian gatherings in the country, bringing together young girls and their mentors for a multi-day programme focused on leadership development, spiritual growth, discipline, and community engagement.

Held from Friday, 1 May, the conference has also attracted over 500 Girls’ Brigade officers who are responsible for guiding and mentoring the participants. The gathering reflects the church’s continued investment in youth development and faith-based empowerment programmes aimed at nurturing responsible future leaders.

A National Platform for Youth Empowerment

The Girls’ Brigade movement under the Zambezi Evangelical Church has grown into a structured platform for mentorship and character development among young girls. The annual national conference serves as a key moment for fellowship, training, and inspiration.

This year’s theme, “Stepping Into Purpose,” emphasizes self-discovery, leadership, and moral development. Organizers say the theme was carefully selected to encourage participants to reflect on their personal goals, spiritual identity, and role in society.

The conference has been led by the National Chairperson for Girls’ Brigade within ZEC, Lieutenant Dorothy Gumbo, who has overseen the coordination of activities and mobilization of participants from different regions of Malawi. The spiritual message for the closing ceremony is expected to be delivered by Lieutenant Reverend Jiya, a senior church minister known for youth-focused sermons.

High-Level Attendance Reflects National Significance

The event has attracted several distinguished guests, reflecting its growing national importance. Among those present is guest of honour Dr Joyce Makokola, alongside Ntcheu District Council Chairperson Jumbe Mambo, the District Commissioner, and Senior Chief Kwataine.

Their presence underscores the collaboration between faith-based institutions and local government structures in promoting youth development and community engagement.

Local authorities have praised the initiative for complementing government efforts to empower young people, particularly girls, through education, mentorship, and moral guidance.

A Symbolic March of Faith and Unity

The conference officially began with a symbolic march from the Zambezi Evangelical Church premises to the New Bus Depot and back to New Era Primary School, where the main activities are being held.

The procession, which involved hundreds of participants dressed in uniform, was described by organizers as a demonstration of unity, discipline, and visibility for the Girls’ Brigade movement. Residents of Ntcheu lined the streets to witness the march, which featured songs, chants, and displays of coordination by the young participants.

The march also served as an outreach moment, allowing the Girls’ Brigade members to engage with the wider community and showcase their values of discipline, service, and Christian faith.

Focus on Leadership, Discipline, and Spiritual Growth

Throughout the conference, participants have been engaged in a series of structured sessions including leadership training, Bible study, motivational talks, and life skills development.

Organizers emphasize that the Girls’ Brigade programme is designed not only to strengthen spiritual values but also to equip young girls with practical skills that can help them navigate education, relationships, and future careers.

The inclusion of over 500 officers highlights the mentorship-driven structure of the movement, ensuring that participants receive continuous guidance from trained leaders.

According to church officials, the programme aims to build confidence among young girls while reinforcing values such as respect, responsibility, and service to the community.

Strengthening the Role of Faith-Based Youth Programmes

Faith-based organizations in Malawi have long played a significant role in youth development, particularly in rural districts where access to structured extracurricular programmes may be limited.

The Girls’ Brigade within ZEC is part of a broader global movement that focuses on empowering girls through Christian education, leadership training, and community service. In Malawi, the programme has expanded steadily over the years, reaching thousands of young participants annually.

Experts in youth development note that such programmes contribute to social cohesion by providing safe spaces for mentorship and positive engagement. They also help reduce vulnerability among young people by promoting discipline and structured guidance.

Community Engagement and Local Impact

The presence of traditional leaders, including Senior Chief Kwataine, highlights the integration of cultural leadership into youth empowerment initiatives. Chiefs and local authorities play a crucial role in mobilizing communities and supporting development programmes.

Ntcheu District officials have expressed support for the initiative, noting its potential to positively influence young girls in the region. They emphasized the importance of partnerships between religious institutions, government bodies, and communities in addressing challenges such as early marriage, school dropout rates, and youth unemployment.

Residents of Ntcheu have also expressed appreciation for the event, noting its positive impact on local business activity and community visibility.

Broader Educational and Social Implications

Education specialists argue that programmes like the Girls’ Brigade conference contribute to long-term social development by reinforcing values of discipline, leadership, and responsibility among young people.

In Malawi, where gender equality and girls’ education remain national priorities, such initiatives complement government policies aimed at increasing school retention rates and empowering young women.

The conference’s focus on “purpose” aligns with broader educational goals of helping young people identify their strengths and aspirations early in life.

Media and Institutional Recognition

The event has drawn attention from various media outlets and faith-based organizations across Malawi. Coverage by national and regional platforms reflects growing recognition of youth empowerment initiatives led by religious institutions.

Similar Girls’ Brigade and youth conferences have been reported by organizations such as BBC News Africa, Reuters, and regional Christian councils, which have highlighted the role of faith-based groups in shaping youth development outcomes across Africa.

Looking Ahead

As the conference moves toward its closing ceremony, organizers are expected to reaffirm commitments to expanding the Girls’ Brigade programme across Malawi. Plans may include increased training for officers, expansion of regional chapters, and deeper collaboration with educational institutions.

The momentum generated by the Ntcheu gathering is expected to influence future programming and strengthen the visibility of youth-focused initiatives within the Zambezi Evangelical Church.

Conclusion

The Zambezi Evangelical Church National Girls’ Brigade Conference in Ntcheu District represents a significant investment in the spiritual, moral, and leadership development of young girls in Malawi. Bringing together more than 1,500 participants and hundreds of mentors, the event underscores the growing role of faith-based organizations in shaping the country’s next generation.

With its emphasis on discipline, purpose, and empowerment, the conference continues to serve as a platform for nurturing confident and responsible young women who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation at large.

As the closing ceremony unfolds, the message of “Stepping Into Purpose” remains central encouraging participants to translate inspiration into action in their daily lives.

Sources:
Zambezi Evangelical Church communications, Malawi Ministry of Gender reports, BBC News Africa, Reuters Africa, Christian Council of Malawi publications.