A young woman in Rumphi, Annie Chinula is defying tradition and making her mark in motorcycle taxi business popularly known as Kabaza, a trade long dominated by men.
Chinula, from Bolero, said she was motivated by what she saw as a gap in service delivery in her area.
She has indicated that through her business, commuters in Bolero are experiencing a different kind of service.
“I decided to venture into the Kabaza business after noticing there was a lack of meaningful competition among operators in Bolero,” Chinula said.
Although the business is widely associated with men, Chinula said gender did not limit her ambition.
“People told me this job is for men, but I believed I could do it and every morning I get on my bike to ferry passengers to work, school and market,” said Chinula.
Since starting her trade last year, Chinula has attracted a growing number of customers who appreciate her safe riding and affordable fares.
She says the income has helped her support her family and gain financial independence.
“Now I am able to support myself, something I couldn’t manage in the past,” She added.
Her courage has drawn praise from women’s rights advocate Hazel Chikalema who has hailed her for challenging stereotypes in rural Malawi.
“Annie Chinula is shattering stereotypes, young women must be encouraged to enter spaces previously closed to them and her story shows that with determination, women can lead in any sector, even transport,” Chikalema said.
