The Zambian constitutional amendment to introduce mixed-member proportional representation with 20 reserved seats in paliarment for women is a concrete and substantial step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) on Gender Equality.
Gender Division Permanent Secretary, Mainga Kabika underscores that the constitutional amendment directly addresses the underrepresentation of women in parliament and aims to ensure their full participation in leadership and decision- making, thereby fostering a more inclusive, representative, and gender-responsive governance structure in Zambia.
“The constitutional amendment represents a significant policy shift aimed at addressing the historical underrepresentation of women in Parliament. By guaranteeing 20 seats, the amendment now increases the numerical presence of women, which is a crucial step towards achieving gender equality n politica leadership. This move aligns directly with SDG 5, particularly target 5.5, which calls for women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making,” she stated.
The Permanent Secretary stated that the constitutional amendment is a clea demonstration of the Zambian government’s commitment to gender equality anc Nomen full participation in leadership and decision-making processes within the country.
Mrs. Kabika has since called-on women across the country to celebrate this millston achievement which unlocks historical underrepresentation of women in Parliament
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