*WOMEN! WAKE UP AND TAKE THE LEAD!*
*”We need to create a political hostile free environment towards women in politics.”*
*LUSAKA, Sunday, October 27, 2024*
Since Zambia independence in 1964, we have witnessed the low participation of women in Zambian politics due to hostile environment created by men in some sections of our country. This trend has continued to shrink the women’s political and governance space.
In Zambia, women in politics and governance continue being abused by male politicians who perpetuate hatred and insults. Male political colleagues also promote patriarchal dynamics of leadership against women in society thereby increasing Political fear among women to participate freely.
As UKA we have also noted that women participation in politics during President Hichilema’s Government remains extremely low which exhibits and demonstrates the bad policy approach towards inclusion of women in politics and governance.
There is need for women to take initiative and lead, rather than waiting for opportunities to be given by men like appointed positions and continue to serve at the mercy of men. Women! wake up and take the lead!
The United Kwacha Alliance is of the view that the mindset of subjecting women to last options or appointed deputy positions limits Zambia’s potential to develop and this approach is shallow towards gender equality and women empowerment.
UKA urges government and all men in zambia to stop;
Excluding women from politics by way of arresting them or intimidating them using government institutions like police. As this will restrict women’s potential to become top leaders in societies and country.
Zambia @60 years ! It’s time for women to assert their leadership potential and claim their space in politics.
Government and civil society organisations should advocate for Policies and initiatives that promote gender equality and inclusive leadership at all levels if we are to achieve 50 50 women participation in politics and business roles.
Empowered women can bring transformative change to Zambian politics and societies.
UKA also would love to remind male politicians to stop engaging in rough and cruel behavior, frustrating and women’s involvement to compete with progressive ideas.
It is very shocking that recently,we have seen female politicians being dragged to court and arrested for simply speaking out on issues that affect the general public.
The approach of doing intimidating women is indeed detrimental to Zambian politics as it creates a hostile environment for women and undermines democracy and inclusive representation.
Furthermore, to address this United Kwacha Alliance-UKA. Will implement the following once voted in power to support gender equality and women empowerment.
UKA will create, promote and implement;
1. Stronger policies and laws promoting gender equality in politics and work places for 50-50 participation of women.
3. Ensure 50 % of women have ministerial positions and other influencial positions of leadership as means and way of encouraging women participation and alignment of government polices towards UN SDGs number 5.
4. Support and develop systems and mentorship programs for women in politics and business to accelerate national development.
5. Increase awareness and education on gender-sensitive politics.
6. Encouragement of respectful dialogue and constructive criticism without name calling and women abuse.
The United Kwacha Alliance, UKA appreciates gender equality and empowerment as means of accelerating development in our country and Africa. We need to realize the important role women play in leadership and the development trajectory of the nation.
UKA, urges women to come on board and participate without intimidation and will always defend the interest of our women folk.
Silavwe Jackson
Chairperson Commmuications
United Kwacha Alliance-UKA