PRESS STATEMENT
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
7th April, 2025
GENDER DIVISION CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION TO ADVANCE WOMEN AND FEMALE YOUTHS’ PARTICIPATION IN LEADERSHIP AND DECISION-MAKING ROLES, INCLUDING POLITICS
The Gender Division’s mandate is to promote the gender equality and women’s empowerment by coordinating and monitoring the implementation of gender policies, protecting women’s rights, curbing Gender Based Violence (GBV) as well as reducing gender inequalities through policy and legislative changes.
Over the years, the Division has employed several strategies to narrow the gap in gender inequalities in line with national and international frameworks, including the United Nations. The initiatives include but not limited to;
1. Policy development and advocating for legislative reforms;
2. Promoting women’s political participation;
3. Promoting gender-responsive economic empowerment;
4. Raising awareness on gender equality; and
5. Leadership training and capacity building.
Despite historic milestones, such as the appointments of Zambia’s first female Vice-President, Chief Justice, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Minister of Justice, women remain underrepresented in leadership. As of 2021, women made up only 15 percent of MPs, 27.9 percent of civil service directors, and 31.08 percent of Permanent Secretaries. In State-Owned Enterprises, only 5 out of 36 CEO positions are held by women. These disparities reflect deep rooted cultural and structural barriers, especially for women who includes young women.
To address these disparities, Gender Division is committed to coordinate and oversee the implementation of comprehensive strategies that will break down barriers, create supportive environments, and ensure women have equal opportunities to influence decisions that affect their lives and the future of our country. The Division will therefore, continue with the dedication to empowering women and creating opportunities for their meaningful participation in all spheres of decision-making.
Recognizing the positive efforts put forth by Government, advocating for amendments of the constitution to provide for clear cut representation of the marginalized groups (women, youths, disability inclusion), the Division welcomes this opportunity and views it as a progressive move to enhance women, youth and differently abled person’s participation in social and economic development of the country. The Gender Division therefore, calls upon all citizens, institutions and stakeholders to support this cause and join us in this important journey toward achieving gender equality. Together, we can ensure that every woman can raise, lead and contribute to the development of Zambia through participating in decision-making of the country.
Issued by:
Office of the President
Gender Division – Cabinet Office
Republic of Zambia
