HH rebukes men targeting girls during Women’s Day address

President Hakainde Hichilema used Zambia’s International Women’s Day commemorations to deliver a direct warning against the exploitation of young girls, confronting men who prey on minors and urging communities to protect the dignity and safety of women and children.

Speaking during national celebrations in Lusaka, the President questioned the conduct of men who pursue girls instead of approaching women their own age. Hichilema described such behaviour as cowardly and unacceptable, saying it undermines the safety of children and damages the moral fabric of society.

He told the gathering that respect for women and girls must begin with the behaviour of men and with communities refusing to tolerate abuse. According to the President, the protection of girls cannot be left only to law enforcement but must be upheld by families, leaders and institutions across the country.

The President said acts of defilement and sexual exploitation represent a serious social problem that requires collective action. He said men must confront the issue directly and reject behaviour that exposes young girls to harm.

Hichilema’s remarks came as Zambia joined the rest of the world in marking International Women’s Day under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.” The global observance recognises the contributions women make to society while highlighting the continued need to protect women’s rights.

During the celebrations, the President praised women for their strength and resilience, noting that women play a vital role in Zambia’s social and economic development. He said women continue to contribute significantly in homes, communities, farms, businesses and public institutions.

Hichilema noted that women carry much of the responsibility for sustaining families and communities. He said their contributions often form the backbone of local economies and social structures.

The President said the country must ensure that women are given equal opportunities to participate in leadership and decision-making. According to Hichilema, when women are present in governance and public institutions, national decisions reflect broader perspectives and stronger community representation.

He encouraged women across the country to take up leadership positions and participate actively in politics and public service. The President said expanding women’s representation in governance remains important for strengthening democracy and improving policy outcomes.

Hichilema also pointed to the need to address barriers that prevent women from advancing in leadership. These barriers include economic inequality, cultural attitudes and limited access to opportunities in certain sectors.

He said government programmes aimed at supporting women must continue expanding so that more women can access education, economic empowerment initiatives and leadership opportunities. According to the President, empowering women ultimately strengthens families and communities.

The Women’s Day commemorations brought together government officials, community leaders, advocacy groups and organisations working to advance women’s rights. The event served both as a celebration of women’s achievements and a platform for addressing the challenges women and girls continue to face.

Participants highlighted issues such as gender-based violence, limited economic opportunities and underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Speakers stressed that addressing these challenges requires cooperation between government, civil society and communities.

Many discussions during the commemorations also focused on education and economic empowerment as key pathways for strengthening the position of women in society. Leaders emphasised that when women have access to education, employment and leadership opportunities, communities benefit broadly.

Hichilema told the gathering that protecting girls from abuse must remain a national priority. He said the country cannot claim social progress if children continue to face exploitation or if communities remain silent about abuse.

The President urged parents, teachers, religious leaders and community members to take active roles in protecting children. He said safeguarding girls requires vigilance, strong community values and institutions willing to act when abuse occurs.

The International Women’s Day commemorations concluded with renewed calls for respect, dignity and opportunity for women across Zambia. Leaders attending the event stressed that protecting girls and empowering women remain essential steps toward building a stronger and more inclusive society.