ActionAid calls for adoption of women in August polls

ActionAid Zambia says the forthcoming elections present an ideal opportunity for Zambia to show that it is serious about gender equality by increasing women representation as elected leaders, especially at local government level

Acting Country Director Caroline Elliot says ActionAid Zambia recommends that the Government should support mechanisms to prepare the electorate and potential candidates for local government elections with a specific focus on building the confidence of women so that they are able to stand for leadership positions in their communities.

Ms. Elliot says ActionAid also urges Parliament to prioritise the enactment of the Gender Equity and Equality Bill and other related legislation to support electoral gender quotas as a fast track to gender-balanced decision making structures.

She says her organisation also recommends that political parties should observe and promote women’s participation in their parties through enshrining into their manifestos equality quotas as a commitment meant to promote women’s participation.