Zambia Pushes for Gender Equality in Foreign Policy with “Women in Foreign Policy” Workshop
The Zambian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator’s office, hosted a workshop on “Women in Foreign Policy” in Lusaka.
This hybrid event, combining in-person and virtual participation, aimed to empower women and promote gender equality within the diplomatic sphere.
The workshop was graced by prominent figures, including Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen (Permanent Secretary, International Relations and Cooperation), Ms. Beatrice Mutali (UN Resident Coordinator), Ms. Clara Anyangwe (UN Women Country Representative for Burundi), Ambassador Wendy Sinkala (seasoned diplomat), and Ms. Mary Mbiya (workshop facilitator). Ministry staff from Lusaka and Zambian diplomats stationed abroad participated virtually.
Ms. Gundersen, in her opening remarks, emphasized the importance of inner resilience, self-belief, and professional expertise for women in foreign policy. She highlighted that these qualities would positively impact their careers and contribute to the Ministry’s vision of propelling Zambia’s economic development.
Ms. Gundersen reiterated President Hichilema’s focus on economic diplomacy, peace, security, and stability as key pillars of Zambia’s foreign relations. She emphasized the Ministry’s responsibility to ensure these goals are achieved and expressed gratitude to the UN for their collaborative efforts in making the workshop possible.
Ms. Mutali, the UN Resident Coordinator, lauded the workshop as a significant step towards Zambia’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. This includes promoting women’s representation in leadership positions within foreign policy and international cooperation.
Ms. Mutali acknowledged Zambia’s progress toward gender equality and highlighted its importance for advancing the country’s women, peace, and security agenda, as well as achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to collaborate with the Zambian government in ensuring gender equality and fostering women’s participation in decision-making processes.
The workshop also featured special video messages from distinguished diplomats, Dr. Vernon J. Mwaanga and Dr. Inonge Mbikusita Lewanika, who offered valuable insights on diplomacy, women’s empowerment, and female representation.
Additionally, a panel discussion featuring Ms. Gundersen and Ambassador Sinkala was held. Presentations on gender empowerment in global policy, the power of diversity and inclusion, and emotional intelligence rounded out the event’s agenda.
