The United Nations in Zambia has unveiled 24 Zambian individuals who will help to accelerate efforts towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the next two years. The SDGs Supporters, who include two traditional leaders, Barbara Banda, Zambia’s celebrated footballer, performing and recording artists, a university professor, community members, a female engineer and Persons with Disabilities, were announced at an unveiling ceremony held in Lusaka today.Ministry of Finance and National Planning Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration, Ms Prudence Kaoma, who was the Guest of Honor said that the Government of the Republic of Zambia attaches significant importance to the SDGs.“The Government takes the SDGs as a very important discourse for Zambia considering that it is a Least Developed Country with a huge population of young people with hopes and dreams for development.”Ms Kaoma called for action at all levels to ensure progress on the Global Goals.“One of the main components for the successful implementation of the SDGs is raising awareness to elicit the necessary actions at all levels...this is very important as we begin to ramp up implementation to increase the participation of various players in these SDGs,” she said.She called on the SDGs supporters to help rally support for the SDGs. “Your role as champions is very pivotal because it not only brings awareness to the citizens about principles for sustainable development but you are also champions for global peace and social economic transformation,” she said.And Ms Beatrice Mutali, UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia said that SDGs supporters will help in promoting the SDGs among the public.“This initiative aims to harness the power of influence, culture, and expertise to rally all the people in Zambia behind the SDGs,” said Ms Beatrice Mutali, UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia. “Our SDG Supporters will amplify key messages, advocate for inclusive development and participation by all in ensuring progress towards the 17 Global Goals that end in 2030.”“Achieving the SDGs requires an all-of-society approach. That is why the UN in Zambia embarked on this initiative to appoint SDGs Supporters—individuals who can use their influence to raise awareness, advocate for change, and mobilize support. Through media engagement, community involvement, and strategic partnerships, these Supporters will lead the narrative about the SDGs, make people care and inspire them to act,” she added.The SDGs Supporters (11 male, 13 female) will promote various aspects of sustainable development — including, education, health, gender equality, climate action, decent work, and peace — aligned with Zambia’s national priorities and the Vision 2030. They will engage in public campaigns, community outreach, and advocacy initiatives in partnership with the UN and its implementing partners that include the Government and Civil Society.List of SDGs Supporters AppointedNo.NameProfession/workSDG to support1Chaka Nyathando Gospel singer and entrepreneur1 (No Poverty)2Esther ChunguPerforming and Recording Gospel Artist2 (Zero Hunger)3Dr. Kachinga SichizyaConsultant Neurosurgeon3 (Good Health and Well-being)4Lulu Haangala-WoodMedia and Communications Consultant3 (Good health and Well-being)5Wezi MhoneSinger and child rights Advocate4 (Quality Education)6Chief MadzimaweAnti-Gender Based Violence Advocate5 (Gender Equality)7Brian BwembyaMusician and Social Advocate5 (Gender Equality) 8Chungu ChintelelweActress5 (Gender Equality)9Chieftainess KawazaAnti-Gender Based Violence Advocate5 (Gender Equality)10Florence J. MulengaPharmacist and sustainability advocate6 (Clean water and Sanitation)11Caroline SakalaElectrical Engineer7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)12Dumisani NcubeEntrepreneur and Motivational Speaker8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)13Samuel MachishiTV Journalist9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)14Barbara BandaZambian professional footballer (Orlando Pride, USA)10 (Reduced Inequalities)15Susan PhiriModel and Albinism Rights Advocate (living with Albinism)/youth10 (Reduced Inequalities)16Natasha MwansaChild and Women’s Rights Advocate (youth)11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)17Mwaka MugalaActress/youth12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)18Revan PhiriCommunity environmental advocate/ Youth13 (Climate Action)19Abel HangomaOrganic Farmer13 (Climate Action)20John MvulaLawyer (living with physical disability)14 (life below water)21Patrick ShawaEnvironmental Conservationist/Naturalist15 (Life on Land)22Professor Owen SichoneAnthropologist16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)22Mulenga KapwepweAuthor and Social Advocate17 (Partnerships for the Goals)24Lina ZuluRadio and TV Journalist17 (Partnerships for the Goals), filtered_html

On 23 May 2025, Zambia officially launched the Spotlight Initiative 2.0, a transformative global partnership aimed at eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls. The launch event, held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, was graced by a diverse group of stakeholders including youth, civil society organizations, academia, the media, and development partners.The Spotlight Initiative, running from 2025 to 2027, will be implemented by the Government of Zambia, in collaboration with the United Nations system (IOM, UNDP, UNESCO, and UNFPA), and with financial support from the Embassy of Ireland.In his keynote address, Zambia’s Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Gilbert A. Phiri, SC, hailed the initiative as a vital tool in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in Zambia. He emphasized the need for legal reforms to close critical gaps in the legal framework, including raising the age of sexual consent, removing harmful provisions in the Penal Code, and strengthening protections for survivors of GBV.“This programme comes at a time when Zambia is grappling with persistent waves of GBV,” Mr. Phiri noted. “It represents an unprecedented global effort to invest in gender equality as a precondition for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.”Speaking on behalf of the United Nations, UN Resident Coordinator Ms. Beatrice Mutali, through UNFPA Country Representative Mr. Seth Broekman, highlighted the four key outcomes of the initiative:Strengthening laws, policies, and institutionsTransforming harmful gender norms and attitudesProviding quality survivor-centered servicesEmpowering women’s rights groups and civil societyMs. Mutali underscored the UN’s commitment to working alongside the Government of Zambia, civil society, and development partners to ensure that women and girls live free from violence, discrimination, and fear.Embassy of Ireland Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Kate O’Donnel, reaffirmed Ireland’s support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for long-term partnerships to close gender gaps and create a society where women and men enjoy equal rights and opportunities.The event also featured a panel discussion on Critical Emerging Issues, bringing together diverse voices:Caritas Zambia: The role of faith-based organizations in addressing GBVNational Organisation for Civic Education (NOCC): The importance of gender-responsive budgeting and public financingZambia Men’s Network: Engaging men and boys as champions of social behavior changeGender Division: The role of government in ending child marriage and challenging harmful social normsStanbic Bank – Anakazi Banking: Promoting financial inclusion for women and youthThe Spotlight Initiative will be implemented in Muchinga and Eastern provinces as well as the capital Lusaka for administrative coordination. According to the 2023 Zambia Gender Assessment Report, over 36% of women and girls aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence at least once since the age of 15. The Spotlight Initiative aims to change this through comprehensive, multisectoral approaches—improving laws, changing attitudes, enhancing services for survivors, and supporting grassroots movements.The launch underscored the shared commitment of the Government of Zambia, the UN, the Embassy of Ireland, and local partners to create a Zambia where every woman and girl can live free from violence, discrimination, and fear., filtered_html

On 21 May 2025, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Lusaka hosted an interactive outreach activity at Kabulonga Secondary School for Boys which centered on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Under the resonant theme, "Acknowledge the past. Repair the present. Build a future of dignity and justice," 100 eager learners embarked on a journey of understanding, reflection, and empowerment.UNIC Lusaka National Information Officer, Mark Maseko, made a presentation that served as a poignant reminder of the brutal realities of the transatlantic slave trade, the forced migration of millions of Africans, the dehumanizing conditions they endured, and the enduring legacy of this horrific chapter in human history. Through compelling narratives and stark facts, the learners were guided to confront the profound impact of slavery on individuals, families, and entire societies.He stated that, “Much as the slave trade represents a painful past, we need to talk about it so that we can honour the memories of those who suffered and learn from what happened to build a better and more equal society in which human rights and the dignity of every human being are respected,” setting the tone for the interaction with the learners. The presentation connected historical injustices to contemporary issues of inequality and discrimination relating to modern-day slavery, urging the young audience to recognize the throughlines that persist even today.Following the presentation, a Grade 11 learner, Timothy Chibaya shared a well-researched presentation focusing on motivations for the slave trade, scale of cruelty, impact on African communities and modern-day slavery, particularly human trafficking, child labour, sex work, and domestic servitude.“Stop modern-day slavery, we need education and awareness. We need to teach people about their rights and how to recognize trafficking. We need to support ethical brands by buying from companies that treat their workers fairly and avoid child or forced labour. If you suspect human trafficking, report to it to authorities,” he said. “We also need to support survivors and promote respect for human rights. Speak out against discrimination, racism, homophobia or any form of prejudice, and encourage leaders to pass anti-discrimination laws” he added.  Later, a short, impactful video brought personal stories and historical accounts to life, offering a connection to the experiences of those who were enslaved. The visual narrative served as a potent catalyst for reflection, prompting thoughtful consideration of the human cost of the inhumane system of slavery.The interactive question and answer session was handled by Charles Nonde, UNIC Lusaka Public Information Assistant, that sparked a vibrant exchange of ideas. The learners posed insightful questions, demonstrating a genuine curiosity and a desire to grapple with the complexities of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its lasting impact. Questions ranged from the economic drivers of the trade to the psychological scars it left behind, avoidance of modern day slavery and the role young people can play in building a more equitable society now and in future."Empowering youth to engage with issues of justice and sustainability is key to shaping a more equitable tomorrow," noted Mrs Gertrude Musiwa, Headteacher, Kabulonga Secondary School for Boys, highlighting the significance of engaging young minds in these crucial conversations.The "Acknowledge the past. Repair the present. Build a future of dignity and justice" theme resonated deeply throughout the event. It underscored the importance of not only understanding the historical context of slavery but also actively working to address its contemporary manifestations. The call to "repair the present" encouraged the learners to identify and challenge systemic inequalities in their own communities and beyond. The final element, "build a future of dignity and justice," served as an inspiring call to action, empowering the young participants to become agents of positive change."We are the generation that can rewrite the future, one of peace, inclusion, and opportunity for all," shared James Zulu, a Grade 11 learner encapsulating the hopeful spirit of the outreach.During the tour of the exhibition Ms Nakamba Suwilanji, a Teacher of History said, “The youth are the architects of tomorrow’s world. Empowering them with knowledge of our history helps shape a more just and inclusive future.” UNIC Lusaka's initiative at Kabulonga Boys represents a crucial step in fostering historical awareness and promoting a culture of justice and dignity among Zambia's youth. By providing a platform for learning, reflection, and dialogue, this outreach activity has undoubtedly sown seeds of change in the minds of these young learners, empowering them to become informed and engaged citizens committed to building a more equitable and just future for all.  , filtered_html

For nearly 80 years, United Nations peacekeepers have delivered tangible change to communities worldwide. From Liberia and Namibia to Cambodia, Sierra Leone and Timor-Leste, their presence has been life-saving and transformative in some of the most volatile political and security contexts, guiding countries from conflict towards lasting peace.Observed under the theme “The Future of Peacekeeping” this year’s International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last nearly eight decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world.Today, more than 68,000 civilians, military, and police personnel serve in 11 UN peacekeeping missions, confronting increasingly complex and interconnected challenges shaped by a shifting geopolitical landscape. Despite the challenges, peacekeepers remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace.The International Day pays tribute to their unwavering service and sacrifice, as well as the resilience of the communities they support. It also solemnly honors the more than 4,400 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace, including 57 in 2024 alone. , filtered_html