Zambia Advocates for Gender Equality and Education Prioritization at African Union Summit
During the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), Zambia reiterated its commitment to advancing gender equality and education accessibility across the continent.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, delivered a statement affirming Zambia’s support for the African Union Commission’s call for Member States to develop National Gender Indicator Frameworks and promote gender mainstreaming in national statistical systems.
Hon. Haimbe emphasized the importance of gender data collection and analysis, highlighting Zambia’s efforts in developing a gender management information system to combat early marriages in Africa.
He also noted Zambia’s role as the AU Champion on ending child marriage, a responsibility taken seriously by President Hakainde Hichilema.
Additionally, Zambia was commended for hosting the African Continental Free Trade Area Youth Symposium in Lusaka, promoting youth involvement in the continent’s trade agenda.
In alignment with the AU’s theme of the year, “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century,” Hon. Haimbe stressed the significance of prioritizing education to achieve Agenda 2063’s aspirations.
Zambia has implemented policies such as free education for all and increased constituency development funds to support education infrastructure and access.
The reintroduction of tertiary level bursaries further demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing education opportunities.
The Executive Council meeting in Ethiopia highlighted the imperative for Member States to prioritize access to education in Africa.
African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki expressed concerns over the slow progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 on education in many African countries.
The Executive Council serves as a precursor to the 37th Ordinary Session of Heads of State and Government, underscoring the ongoing discussions and initiatives aimed at advancing key developmental agendas across the continent.
This information is contained in a statement issued by Mrs. Inutu Mupango Mwanza, First Secretary-Press/Tourism, Zambia Embassy, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
