Participation of Traditional Leaders in Poverty Alleviation Programmes in Blantyre, Malawi: Gaps, Challenges and Insights for Sustainable Development

Abstract

The Local Government Act (Chapter 22:01) of 1999 includes provisions for traditional leaders to participate in development planning. Traditional leaders are vital in local governance because they represent their communities. Past studies have mainly examined the role of traditional leaders in implementing development programmes rather than their level of involvement in planning these initiatives. This article aims to assess the factors influencing traditional leaders' participation in poverty alleviation programmes in Blantyre, Malawi. The study is guided by the theory of the ladder of citizen participation. A qualitative case study approach was adopted, with data collected through interviews and document analysis. The findings show that traditional leaders lack decision-making authority; instead, the government formulates programmes without involving them. Despite their local knowledge and willingness to contribute to programme development, traditional leaders face obstacles such as conflicting relationships with elected officials, funding limitations, multiple priorities, limited understanding of participation processes, and centralisation of decision-making, all of which impede their involvement. The article recommends that the Government of Malawi establish community committees that work directly with policymakers, provide financial support for community-led initiatives, offer training for traditional leaders on participation, and encourage traditional leaders to utilise locally available resources to combat poverty.