By Mary Kachepa
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says at least 20 additional women are expected to enter Parliament after the 2026 elections following the enactment of Constitution Amendment Act No. 13 of 2025.
President HICHILEMA says the constitutional amendment forms part of wider efforts by his Government to increase women’s representation in decision-making positions.
He says many women have already been appointed to key roles in Government and urged those holding such positions to conduct themselves professionally in order to inspire younger women.
The President was speaking during International Women’s Day commemorations in Lusaka held under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”
President HICHILEMA commended women and girls across the country for their resilience and achievements despite challenges such as Gender Based Violence.
He said women continue to play an important role in governance and within families.
The President also called on men to stop acts such as defilement, rape and impregnating young girls.
He said men who sexually abuse children and rape women are cowards and urged men to reject harmful practices and avoid relationships with underage girls.
President HICHILEMA said although laws exist to punish offenders, such problems will persist if attitudes do not change.
He added that of the 2.5 million children who have returned to school under the Government’s free education policy, the majority are girls.
Meanwhile, President HICHILEMA directed the Secretary to the Cabinet to work with the Agricultural and Commercial Show Society of Zambia to improve infrastructure at the main arena at the showgrounds.
He said there is need to construct proper shelter instead of relying on temporary tents that obstruct people seated in the permanent stands.
Speaking at the same event, Human Rights Commission Chairperson PAMELA SAMBO said constitutional reforms will help increase women’s participation in leadership.
Dr. SAMBO said despite progress, women and girls in Zambia continue to face various human rights challenges.
And Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council -NGOCC Chairperson BEAUTY KATEBE urged political parties to give women equal opportunities when selecting candidates ahead of the 2026 general election.
Ms. KATEBE said political parties should allocate 50–50 contestable positions to women and men.
She also called on parties to adopt female candidates in constituencies where they have a strong chance of winning.
Ms. KATEBE said there is also need to address electoral violence, which discourages many women from participating in elections both as candidates and voters.
She further said individuals convicted of defilement and rape should not be considered for presidential pardons.
Meanwhile, United Nations Resident Coordinator BEATRICE MUTALI said it is important to ensure that women have equal opportunities as Zambia prepares for the 2026 general election.
Ms. MUTALI said rights without enforcement remain only promises.
And Lusaka Province Minister SHEAL MULYATA said President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has advanced women’s rights by appointing them to key positions in Government.
