1.2 Million Pupils Return to School Under Free Education, Says Hichilema
Zambia joined the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day at the Lusaka Showgrounds, with the event officiated by President Hakainde Hichilema. The celebration brought together government officials, civil society organisations and members of the public to recognise the role of women in national development.
The Ministry of Technology and Science used the occasion to highlight the importance of technology and innovation in advancing gender equality, particularly through efforts aimed at bridging the digital gender divide and promoting greater participation of women and girls in science and technology fields.
Held under the theme “Rights, Justice and Action for Women and Girls,” the commemoration emphasised the need for inclusive development through improved access to education, justice and economic opportunities for women, especially in rural communities.
The ministry identified digital inclusion and equity as key priorities, noting the importance of expanding access to information and communication technologies and improving digital literacy among women and girls.
It also encouraged greater participation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, commonly referred to as STEM, as part of efforts to strengthen women’s representation in the technology workforce.
Officials further stressed the importance of creating safe digital spaces by addressing online gender-based violence and harassment, while promoting data-driven policymaking through the use of gender-disaggregated data to inform inclusive technology policies.
Speaking during the event, Beauty Katebe, Chairperson of the Non-Governmental Organization Coordinating Council, said the day should serve not only as a celebration but also as a moment of reflection on the progress made in advancing women’s rights.
She commended government for establishing the Gender Commission to promote equity and accountability, while calling for stronger measures to increase women’s participation in politics and leadership.
Ms Katebe also urged authorities to strengthen protections for vulnerable groups and intensify efforts to address political violence, sextortion and harmful traditional practices affecting persons with disabilities and those living with albinism.
In his keynote address, President Hichilema described the day as an opportunity to celebrate the vital contribution women make to Zambia’s social and economic development.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring fairness in the delivery of justice, urging institutions to uphold human rights and strengthen public confidence in the justice system.
The President noted that women continue to assume more leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, adding that government policies are aimed at expanding opportunities for women and girls across the country.
He also highlighted the impact of free education supported by the Constituency Development Fund, which has enabled more than 1.2 million pupils to return to school, the majority of whom are girls.
In addition, he referenced the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 13 of 2025, which is expected to increase women’s representation in Parliament and local government structures.
President Hichilema concluded by calling on men to work alongside women as partners in national development and to support efforts aimed at ending gender-based violence and promoting dignity and equality for all.
