Protecting Women in Elections

New push to ensure safe participation in 2026 general elections

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (March 19, 2026) — Lifeline/Childline Zambia says it is stepping up efforts aimed at protecting women in elections by increasing public awareness of the 933 Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE) Hotline ahead of the 2026 General Elections

Florence Chileshe Nkhuwa said the move is part of a broader push to ensure women participate safely in the electoral process, following growing concerns about sexual exploitation, harassment, and intimidation during political adoption and campaign activities

Nkhuwa said the hotline provides a confidential, toll-free platform where women can report election-related violence, including sexual coercion, intimidation, harassment, and abuse linked to political participation.

She explained that survivors and witnesses can call 933, 116, or 944 to access counselling, referrals, and immediate support services.

Nkhuwa said recent media reports and public statements from traditional leaders, political leaders, civil society, and the Gender Division have revealed disturbing allegations that some aspiring female candidates are being asked for sexual favors.

She said such practices amount to Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE), a serious violation that undermines democracy, discourages women’s leadership, and threatens the integrity of elections.

Nkhuwa stressed that violence against women has no place in Zambia’s elections and should not be the cost of women’s participation in politics.

“This hotline is a lifeline. Women must be able to participate in politics without fear,” Nkhuwa said.

She added that the 933, 116, and 944 numbers exist to ensure that no woman faces violence alone, and that early reporting helps prevent escalation, supports survivors, and strengthens accountability.

Nkhuwa further said that anonymised data collected through the hotline will support national monitoring, prevention, and response efforts during the electoral period.

She said this forms part of a wider commitment by civil society and partners to promote safe, inclusive, and credible elections, and to ensure women are protected as voters, candidates, party members, and leaders.

Nkhuwa has since urged members of the public, victims, and witnesses to report incidents or seek support by calling 933, 116, or 944, which are available nationwide.