ZAMBIA UNITES IN THE FIGHT AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AT THE ANTI-GBV COORDINATION MEETING

Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 15th April, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.

In a powerful and urgent appeal to the nation, Permanent Secretary of the Gender Division, Mrs. Mainga D. Kabika, has emphasized the need for a unified, multi-sectoral approach in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) across Zambia.

Speaking during the Anti-GBV Coordination Meeting held on Tuesday, 15th April 2025, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Mrs. Kabika delivered a sobering message: ending GBV is a collective responsibility that demands the active participation of all sectors of society.

Representatives from government ministries, traditional leadership, civil society, faith-based organizations, musicians, artist, social media influencers, development partners, and the media gathered to reinforce a shared commitment to eliminating the scourge of GBV, which continues to erode the fabric of communities and families alike.

Mrs. Kabika reiterated that the meeting was convened following a directive from the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema who expressed deep concern over escalating cases of rape, incest, defilement and sodomy—many of which occur in spaces meant to be safe: homes, schools, places of worship, and workplaces. “The frequency and nature of these crimes are alarming,” she said. “We are now witnessing disturbing reports of abuse within families, often at the hands of individuals entrusted with the care and protection of children.”

The Permanent Secretary acknowledged the growing public outcry, including protests and solidarity marches led by civil society, as a necessary catalyst for institutional reform and enhanced coordination. She noted that the Government, through the Gender Division, is already taking concrete steps, including the upcoming launch of a toll-free GBV hotline (944), supported by the World Bank, and the development of a national GBV Information Management System aimed at improving data collection and limiting case withdrawals.

In a significant legal move, the Government is also undertaking a comprehensive review of the Anti-GBV Act No. 1 of 2011. Mrs. Kabika encouraged all stakeholders to participate in this process to ensure that the revised law closes existing loopholes and enforces stronger protections for survivors.

Beyond legislation, she emphasized the need to strengthen justice delivery systems, build capacity among law enforcement, and ensure holistic support for survivors—spanning medical, legal, psychological, and economic recovery services.

“Let this meeting be a turning point,” she urged. “We must enhance coordination, share information, and hold each other accountable. Only then can we ensure that Zambia becomes a place where every individual—especially women and children—live free from fear and violence.”

Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of your paragraph with a slightly different tone and structure:

Mrs. Kabika ended her speech with an inspiring appeal, urging everyone to reaffirm their dedication to fostering a safer and more equitable Zambia for all.

The Agency