As Malawi approaches its September elections, health has emerged as a central campaign issue with major political parties making significant pledges for reform. This shift is largely attributed to civil society's advocacy, which ensured health commitments were integrated into party manifestos.

• Four major parties—MCP, UTM, UDF, and DPP—are competing with health-focused promises.
• The UTM specifically pledged to meet the Abuja Declaration target of allocating 15 percent of the national budget to health.
• The article emphasizes that these pledges must translate into action, requiring reliable funding and legislative support, as highlighted by Country Director at Amref Health Africa in Malawi Hester Nyasulu.