Luanshya District recorded over 700 cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in 2025, with women and girls accounting for about 90 percent of the victims, District Commissioner Paul Malele disclosed.
Mr. Malele said the statistics highlight the need for strengthened justice systems and community support to protect women and girls from violence and discrimination.
Mr Malele called for the need to ensure justice is delivered not only in courts but also within homes, workplaces and communities.
He further stressed the importance of supporting institutions such as victim support units, one-stop centres and other justice systems so survivors can access medical, legal, and psychosocial services without delay.
“In 2025 alone, Luanshya recorded over 700 cases of gender-based violence, with women and girls making up 90 percent of the victims,” Mr. Malele said.
The media reports that the GBV statistics were revealed yesterday during the commemoration of International Women’s Day.
Highlighting progress in women’s empowerment, Mr. Malele disclosed that over 1,800 women in Luanshya have received productivity grants, while 15,000 people have benefitted from social cash transfers, with women accounting for 70 percent of beneficiaries.
He added that 4,175 girls from vulnerable households have been earmarked for support to remain in school and access quality education.
Meanwhile, Luanshya Mayor Charles Mulenga praised government efforts to enhance women’s participation in national leadership.
Mr Mulenga commended President Hakainde Hichilema for assenting to the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, which introduces a mixed-member proportional representation system aimed at increasing the representation of women, youths, and persons with disabilities in Parliament.
“This landmark reform guarantees greater opportunities for women, youths and persons with disabilities to serve in the National Assembly and places women at the centre of decision-making,” Mr Mulenga said.
Such a small place. Over 700?