President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a stern warning to abusers of women and girls, reiterating that Zambia will no longer tolerate injustices against them. Speaking at the International Women’s Day commemoration under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,” the President stressed that women are central to human existence and development. President Hichilema emphasised that women are a special species in the human race and their contributions to equality, justice and development are invaluable.
He urged men and boys to respect women’s rights and choices. “Without women, we wouldn’t be here. Cowards are those who coerce young children who are not yet mature enough to make independent decisions and take them back.
Why don’t you approach mature women where they like to say yes or no? You are cowards,” he said Mr Hichilema called on traditional leaders, communities and individuals to work together to stop harmful practices and discrimination against women and girls. “Let’s build a society where every girl’s rights, every woman and her choices are respected at all times,” he said.
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UNDP Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali also stressed the need for urgent action to address disparities faced by women and girls globally, noting that women currently hold only 64% of the legal rights men do. She called for dismantling discriminatory laws and practices, highlighting Zambia’s progress through initiatives such as the Victim Support Unit and expanded health resources. Ms Mutali emphasized the need to address risks faced by adolescent girls, including early pregnancy, HIV and gender-based violence, while also eliminating technology-facilitated abuse and hate speech. “The UNDP remains committed to supporting Zambia’s efforts to achieve gender equality and equity, including advocating for finance, business and trade opportunities for women and girls,” she said.
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