The Ministry of Technology and Science joined the nation in commemorating International Women’s Day at the Lusaka Showgrounds, an event officiated by the Republican President, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema. The celebration brought together government officials, civil society organizations, and members of the public to recognize the critical role women play in national development.
This year’s celebration was held under the theme “Rights, Justice and Action for Women and Girls.” The Ministry interpreted this theme within the context of technology and innovation, emphasizing the need to bridge the digital gender divide, promote safe online environments, and encourage greater participation of women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). These efforts are aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable development, particularly by improving access to education, justice, and economic opportunities for women and girls, especially those in rural communities.
In line with the theme, the Ministry highlighted several key focus areas. These include digital inclusion and equity, which promotes access to ICT tools and digital literacy among women and girls to close the gender gap in technology. The Ministry also underscored the importance of STEM empowerment, encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in science and technology to strengthen their participation in the workforce.
Another critical area emphasized was the creation of safe digital spaces by taking action against online gender-based violence (GBV) and harassment, thereby ensuring that women and girls can safely engage in digital platforms. The Ministry also stressed the importance of data-driven policy making, which involves using gender-disaggregated data to identify disparities and guide policies that promote women’s rights and inclusion in technological advancements.
Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted the importance of innovative solutions for justice, including the development of digital tools and online platforms that enable survivors of gender-based violence to report cases and access justice. These initiatives align with the National Gender Policy of 2023 and the Gender Equity and Equality Act No. 22 of 2015, which provide a legal framework for promoting gender equality and protecting the rights of women and girls in Zambia.
Speaking during the event, Ms. Beauty Katebe, Chairperson of the Non-Governmental Organization Coordinating Council (NGOCC), noted that International Women’s Day goes beyond celebration. She described it as a moment for honest reflection and a collective commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls in Zambia. She commended the government for establishing the Gender Commission, which promotes equity and accountability in the political system. She also advocated for the enactment of a political party law that would strengthen intra-party democracy and create a conducive environment for increased participation of women in leadership and politics.
Ms. Katebe further acknowledged government initiatives aimed at empowering women economically, including the formalization of artisanal and small-scale mining licenses and the establishment of a small-scale mining department and regulatory framework. However, she appealed for stronger measures to protect vulnerable groups, urging that individuals convicted of defilement should not be granted presidential pardons before completing their sentences. She also called for stronger action against political violence and sextortion, as well as the ratification of the African Disability Protocol to address harmful traditional practices affecting the elderly and persons with disabilities, including those living with albinism.
In his keynote address, President Hakainde Hichilema described the day as an important occasion to celebrate the immense contributions women make to the development of Zambia. He emphasized that celebrating women is equivalent to celebrating families and communities that collectively build the nation. The President noted that women are indispensable partners in national development and central to the values that sustain human existence.
President Hichilema reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting rights, justice, and meaningful action for women and girls across the country. He stressed that government institutions must uphold fairness and equality in the delivery of justice and called on the judiciary to ensure timely resolution of cases to strengthen public confidence in the justice system.
The President highlighted several achievements demonstrating government’s commitment to gender inclusion. He noted that the majority of the over 40,000 teachers recruited under his administration are women, while key leadership positions including the Speaker of the National Assembly and the First Deputy Speaker are held by women. He further observed that women increasingly occupy senior positions as directors, heads of corporate institutions, and chief executive officers in both the public and private sectors.
He also emphasized the positive impact of free education supported by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which has enabled more than 1.2 million pupils to return to school, with the majority being girls. This initiative, he said, helps keep the girl child in school and reduces the risks of early pregnancies and child marriages.
Additionally, the President 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. Through these reforms, the country anticipates the addition of 20 more women in Parliament and 15 persons with disabilities, strengthening inclusive representation in governance.
In conclusion, President Hichilema called on men across the country to be genuine partners with women in building a prosperous Zambia. He urged all citizens to uphold human rights with dignity and respect, emphasizing the need to end gender-based violence and create a society where women and girls can thrive and contribute fully to national development.
