Sunday, 8th March, 2026 Press Statement by New Congress Party (NCP) President Peter Chanda on International Women’s Day (IWD) themed:“Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls”.

Today, Sunday, 8th March, 2026 on International Women’s Day (IWD), the New Congress Party (NCP) joins the rest of the world in celebrating the strength, resilience, and immense contribution of women to our nation.

This year’s theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” speaks directly to the urgent need to move beyond words and ensure that women and girls fully enjoy their rights and opportunities in society.

As the New Congress Party (NCP), we recognize that Zambian women remain the backbone of our communities.

From the markets and farms to boardrooms, schools, and homes, women continue to drive the social and economic life of our country.

Yet, despite these contributions, many women still face significant challenges, including limited economic opportunities, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), barriers to leadership, unequal access to education, and inadequate support for women entrepreneurs.

The New Congress Party firmly believes that the future of Zambia cannot be built while half of its population continues to face systemic barriers. Our commitment is clear: women must not only be celebrated but empowered.

Once entrusted with the responsibility to govern, the NCP Administration will take decisive action to address the issues affecting women and girls across the country.

As New Congress Party we will; “Promote economic empowerment by expanding funding opportunities, business support programs, and access to markets for women entrepreneurs, particularly those in rural areas”.

Strengthen laws and enforcement mechanisms to combat gender-based violence and ensure that women and girls live free from abuse and discrimination.

Expand educational opportunities for girls and young women, ensuring that no girl is forced to abandon her dreams due to poverty, early marriage, or lack of support.

Increase women’s participation in leadership and governance, ensuring meaningful representation in decision-making at all levels of society.

Improve healthcare services for women, including maternal health services and access to reproductive healthcare.

The NCP believes that empowering women is not charity it is nation building. A Zambia where women thrive is a Zambia that prospers.

On this important day, I call upon all Zambians to reaffirm their commitment to respect, equality, and justice for every woman and girl. Let us work together to build a society where opportunity is not determined by gender but by ability, ambition, and hard work.

To all the women of Zambia; mothers, daughters, sisters, entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, and leaders we see you, we celebrate you, and we commit to standing with you.

Happy International Women’s Day.

Peter Chanda
President
New Congress Party (NCP)