Frank Kamwendo has emerged as the preferred candidate among respondents in a leadership study ahead of the Nurses and Midwives Organisation of Malawi (NONM) elections scheduled for November this year.
Seven of the nine respondents, representing 77.8 percent, identified Kamwendo, while Benson Phiri and George Nkhoma each received one response, representing 11.1 percent.
The study was conducted among paid-up NONM members from September 27 to 29 using an online Google Forms questionnaire shared with all 24 district and zone chairs. Nine responses from the Southern, Central and Northern regions were analysed.
On leadership qualities, all nine respondents cited integrity and honesty, transparency, visionary leadership, accountability and good communication as important qualities. Eight respondents, representing 88.9 percent, cited unity-building and compassion.
Improved remuneration, better working conditions and welfare were each identified by eight respondents, representing 88.9 percent, as priorities.
Seven respondents, representing 77.8 percent, cited professional development and communication, while six, representing 66.7 percent, prioritised stronger representation and unity among nurses and midwives.
Open-ended responses also called for greater transparency and proper use of funds, stronger support for zones and leadership independent of political involvement.
The study, described as Afrobarometer-style, reflects the views of nine of the 24 district and zone chairs invited to participate and does not represent all NONM members.
