President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a direct warning against sexual violence, urging men across the country to respect women and uphold their dignity as Zambia continues efforts to confront gender-based violence.
The President made the remarks during a public address where he spoke about the responsibility of citizens and institutions to protect women and girls from abuse and exploitation.
Hichilema said acts of sexual violence represent a serious violation of human dignity and undermine the values that underpin a stable and just society.
He said the abuse of women cannot be tolerated in any community and called on men to reject behaviour that harms women.
“Don’t rape women,” Hichilema said as he addressed the issue directly.
The President said sexual violence continues to destroy lives and leave long-lasting trauma for victims and their families.
According to Hichilema, protecting women from abuse must remain a national priority requiring cooperation between families, communities, law enforcement agencies and government institutions.
He said violence against women weakens social stability and damages the moral foundations of society.
Hichilema said communities must actively discourage behaviour that places women at risk and promote respect for women and girls in homes, schools and workplaces.
The President said building a society founded on dignity and equality requires strong cultural and social commitment to protecting women.
He urged men to take responsibility for promoting safe and respectful relationships within communities.
According to Hichilema, many cases of gender-based violence occur within familiar environments where victims often struggle to report abuse.
He said silence surrounding abuse allows perpetrators to continue harming victims and prevents justice from being served.
Hichilema said communities must encourage victims to report incidents of abuse and ensure that survivors receive support.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening institutions responsible for investigating and prosecuting sexual violence cases.
The President said law enforcement agencies must continue enforcing laws designed to protect women and girls from abuse.
Hichilema noted that gender-based violence has serious social and economic consequences because it disrupts families and undermines national development.
He said protecting women is essential for building safe communities where citizens can contribute fully to national progress.
The President also urged parents and guardians to guide young people toward responsible behaviour and respect for others.
He said teaching respect and responsibility within families can help prevent violence before it occurs.
According to Hichilema, communities that protect women create environments where children can grow and thrive without fear.
He said institutions such as schools, churches and civic organisations also have an important role in promoting values that discourage violence and discrimination.
Hichilema said the country must continue strengthening public awareness about the dangers of gender-based violence.
He urged citizens to work together to eliminate practices that expose women and girls to abuse.
The President said addressing sexual violence requires sustained national commitment rather than isolated interventions.
He emphasised that protecting women is central to building a society grounded in respect, justice and equality.
Editors Note:
“Hichilema said Zambia cannot achieve meaningful social progress while violence against women persists, warning that communities must work collectively to end abuse and protect the dignity of every woman and girl”.
Concur !