Big Interview: Joan Ntaja, new mayor for Zomba City

Joan Ntaja is the new mayor for Zomba City and the first woman to assume such a postition in the colonial capital; and the second out of the six mayors in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Zomba cities; Kasungu and Luchenza municipalities. The battle for mayorship; just like many battles in the political arena, has disfavoured women, stiffening their chances to positions of influence. Everywoman traces her journey to success.

Who is Joan Ntaja?

I am 30 years old, born on February 25 1984 at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH). My mother is Cathyreen Chimgoga Chakhaza. I am married to Rashid Mussa and we have three children; Kate, Khalid and Khalil.

What is your educational background?

I did my primary at several schools such as St. Pius, St Anthony, Zomba Police and completed at Balaka Primary School. I attended Balaka and St. Marys Secondary Schools before doing my secretarial course; intermediate level at Michiru Secretarial College. From there, I did business management at Lilongwe Technical College. I am, however, pursuing further studies.

Tell me about your upbringing and family background.

I was born in a family of four children; three girls and a boy. Our first born are twins, Onica and Onesa. I am the second born and the third born is my only brother Jonathon. My father and mother divorced when I was just a baby and I was raised by this strong woman, Cathy, my mother. Unfortunately, my father passed on just two days after my election as mayor.

What does it feel to be the first female mayor for Zomba?

It feels great. It is like a dream come true. I have been dreaming of being on top and doing something tangible for people. I am glad that my wish has materialised even before I turn 31 years. I am the happiest woman.

What is your agenda for Zomba?

My agenda for Zomba City is to transform it into an economically viable and fully developed city using every available form of revenue. I intend to achieve this by maximising security, maintenance of roads, sanitising the environment while at the same time providing equal opportunities to all residents who are prepared to work for the common good of our city.

How will you contribute to women?

As a female mayor, my pivotal role on women is to unite and inspire them in the fight against poverty. My major contribution to them is to promote self esteem, which I believe is a necessary tool in facing day-to-day problems and challenges as well as opportunities. It does not matter whether women are home-based, working class or running businesses. I believe there is need for them to capitalise on positives of their challenges and turn them into opportunities for economic growth and sustainability of their livelihoods.

Share with me your journey to the counsellorship and now mayor.

I have gone through a lot to be where I am. Some people tried to discourage me. You talk of the insults and bullying I have endured, just to be frustrated. I am grateful to my mother, husband, other family members and supporters who stood by me always. At the councillorship we contested, we were four, but I went through it all at the will of Allah. And at the mayoral seat, we were four as well; three men and myself. It wasn’t easy, but when Allah says yes, nobody can say no.

What are your political ambitions?

My political ambition is to become a Member of Parliament (MP) in 2019

How do you view Malawian politics?

Politics in Malawi has taken so many slides before, but with the second coming of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government under President Peter Mutharika, Malawi politics has embarked on a rejuvenation era. This is an era that is positively contributing to the well being of our citizenry. Malawi as a country, we are one people. As mothers of the land, we should engage in accommodative politics guided by the spirit of give and take; live and let live.

How will you work with members of other political parties in development?

I am determined to pursue policy of togetherness when it comes to development, where by unity in diversity will play the central part regardless of political affiliation but, desire and patriotism towards social progress for the prosperity of Zomba residents

Why do you think you were voted?

I was voted as councillor, later on as mayor because people in Zomba believe in development and development is what the people need. They saw me as having the potential for leadership to take them through the path of that development. I am the person whom they knew, trusted and understood.

Any last comments?

Everything happens for a reason; if we fall it is good to stand up, dust ourselves and continue with our journey. And let us PUSH, pray until something happens.