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The Zambia Police Service has raised the alarm over the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) recorded in the first quarter of 2025, highlighting a worrying trend compared to the same period last year.
A total of 11,177 GBV cases were reported between January and March 2025—an increase of 1,477 cases from the 9,700 cases recorded during the same period in 2024.
Speaking during a stakeholder dialogue on ending sexual violence held at Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, Zambia Police Service Deputy Community Service Directorate (CSD) Coordinator for Lusaka Division, Muimui Mubita, described the rise as alarming and called for immediate, multi-sectoral interventions.
“There is urgent need to provide targeted responses to mitigate violence, especially against women and girls,” Mubita emphasized.
The meeting, held in partnership with Young Women In Action, brought together lawmakers, representatives from government ministries, traditional and religious leaders, civil society actors, and the media.
Of the 11,177 reported cases: 7,185 involved women, 1,518 involved men, and 2,474 involved children.
On the sidelines of the event, Chipasha Mwansa, Project Liaison for Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at Akina Mama Wa Afrika (AMwA), urged all sectors to propose practical and inclusive solutions to end sexual violence.
“Sexual violence affects the well-being, dignity, and rights of individuals—particularly women and girls in local communities,” Mwansa said.
She stressed the importance of collaboration among government institutions, law enforcement, community leaders, civil society, service providers, and GBV survivors to ensure comprehensive protection and support.
Mwansa also called for urgent reflection on the rising number of defilement cases and the effectiveness of the legal framework protecting women and girls.
“This dialogue aims to share data on sexual violence, assess legal and policy frameworks, strengthen coordination and referral systems, and develop collective strategies for prevention, protection, and survivor support,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Itezhi-Tezhi Member of Parliament Twaambo Mutinta, urged increased sensitization for both law enforcement and communities in rural areas, where legal literacy on women’s rights remains low.
“Many families and officers in remote areas lack awareness of the laws that protect women and girls. Education and sensitization are key,” Mutinta said.
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