New HRC Board Sets Gender Standard

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Katebe says appointments demonstrate commitment to balanced governance.

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia24  - (July 29, 2025) - The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema’s appointments to the Human Rights Commission (HRC) Board, praising the inclusion of four women among the seven nominees, whose appointments are pending ratification by the National Assembly.

NGOCC Chairperson Ms. Beauty Katebe congratulated Dr. Pamela Sambo on her appointment as Chairperson and Dr. Felicity Kalunga as Vice Chairperson. Other appointees include Ms. Panic Malawo Chilufya, Ms. Laura Mary Miti, Bishop Yona Chikoya, Father Joe Koma Koma, and Mr. Fred Wamundila Waliuya.

Katebe says the appointments demonstrate Zambia’s commitment to achieving gender balance, in line with Article 259(b) of the Constitution, which calls for 50/50 gender representation in public appointments.

She noted that, historically, appointments to boards and commissions have not reflected the constitutional requirement for gender equity, and urged consistent application across all governance structures.

Katebe also called for the full operationalisation of the Gender Equity and Equality Act No. 22 of 2015, including establishing the Gender Equity and Equality Commission as mandated by Article 231 of the Constitution.

She said the Commission would provide independent oversight to ensure state and non-state actors uphold gender equity and equality principles.

NGOCC expressed confidence that the new HRC Board will carry out its duties professionally and inclusively, upholding human rights for all Zambians.

While welcoming this progress, NGOCC emphasized the need for sustained political will and structural reforms to embed gender parity permanently in Zambia’s governance.

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