The Republican Progressive Party (RPP) has expressed its strong support for Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s recent call to accelerate the implementation of Zambia’s National Gender Policy. Speaking during International Women’s Day celebrations in Lusaka, the Vice President emphasized the urgent need to empower women and ensure gender equality across all sectors of society.
RPP Commends Government’s Commitment to Gender Equality
RPP National Women Chairperson, Onny Kayumba, welcomed the Vice President’s remarks, describing them as a reflection of the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive national development.
“Her reaffirmation of government’s dedication to ensuring that women are not left behind in national progress is both commendable and encouraging,” Kayumba stated.
She added that women’s participation in leadership, business, and community development is essential for national prosperity and that the RPP remains fully committed to supporting gender empowerment initiatives.
Vice President
Recognition of NGOCC’s Role in Women’s Leadership Advocacy
The Republican Progressive Party also extended its appreciation to the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) for its relentless advocacy in promoting women’s leadership.
The party particularly praised the NGOCC’s efforts to increase female participation in the upcoming 2026 elections, noting that the council’s decision to sponsor women candidates is a significant step toward greater gender balance in Zambia’s political landscape.
“As the Republican Progressive Party, we strongly support this initiative and applaud all stakeholders working to elevate women into positions of influence,” Kayumba said.
She emphasized that increased female representation in politics and governance will strengthen democracy, enhance policy inclusivity, and lead to better social and economic outcomes for the nation.
Call for More Women in Leadership and Governance
Encouraging young women and aspiring female leaders to seize the opportunity, the RPP urged them to step forward and take an active role in shaping Zambia’s future.
“Zambia needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership,” the party declared, calling on women across all sectors to become more involved in governance, business, and social activism.
Kayumba further encouraged women to challenge existing barriers and work toward breaking cultural and institutional obstacles that hinder female progress in leadership.
Aligning with Zambia’s National Gender Policy
The National Gender Policy is aimed at achieving gender equality, women’s empowerment, and equal opportunities in all areas of national development.
The Republican Progressive Party’s endorsement of women’s leadership initiatives aligns with its broader vision for inclusive governance and equitable national development.
The party acknowledged that achieving gender balance requires collaboration between government, political parties, civil society, and development partners.
“True progress can only be made when all stakeholders come together to champion gender equality and remove barriers to women’s advancement,” Kayumba said.
A Collective Responsibility for Gender Equality
The RPP also called on men to actively support gender empowerment efforts, stating that gender equality is not just a women’s issue, but a national issue that affects the entire country’s development.
“When women lead, communities thrive, and the nation prospers. We must all work together to ensure that women have equal opportunities to contribute to Zambia’s growth,” Kayumba emphasized.
She further urged all political parties to commit to gender-sensitive policies, including the adoption of more female candidates in elections and the promotion of women in key decision-making positions.
The Road to 2026: More Women in Politics
With the 2026 elections approaching, the push for gender inclusivity in leadership is gaining momentum. The RPP stressed the need for more mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and policy support to encourage women to contest in elections and take up key leadership roles.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to create an environment where women feel supported and empowered to lead.
Conclusion
The Republican Progressive Party’s endorsement of Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s call for gender equality highlights the growing political will to enhance women’s participation in national development.
With support from organizations like NGOCC, the government, and various political parties, Zambia is taking meaningful steps toward achieving its National Gender Policy objectives.
As the 2026 elections approach, stakeholders must continue advocating for women’s representation, ensuring that Zambia’s future leadership reflects the true diversity of its people.
