THE UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONAL ADMININISTRATION ANDPOLICY STUDIES

EAP 9075: INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS OF EDUCATION

NAME : LUNGU GRACE

COMP NO# : 2020022494

COURSE CODE : EAP 9075

COURSE COORDINATOR : PROF GIFT MASAITI, PH.D.

TASK : ASSIGNMENT 01

DUE DATE : 19TH APRIL, 2024.

QUESTION:

Examine the main issues and challenges encountered in “investing in women and girls for
accelerating socio-economic progress' in Zambia. Suggest practical ways of how these
challenges.
Investing in women and girls for accelerating socio-economic progress is a critical component of
development efforts in Zambia. Despite recognition of the importance of gender equality and the
empowerment of women and girls, there are several challenges and issues that hinder progress in
this area. This essay will examine the main issues and challenges encountered in investing in
women and girls in Zambia and suggest practical ways of how these challenges can be solved.

The process of social and economic development in a Zambia refers to socio-economic

development. Typically, socio-economic development is calculated with different indicators such
as life expectancy, level of employment, inflation and gross domestic production (Kachika &
Mwape, 2019). On the other hand, empowerment of women and girls involves breaking the
inter-generational cycle of poverty, violence, social exclusion and discrimination. This is a
cornerstone of national development (Ferreira & Walton, 2005). In reality, educated and
empowered girls have greater autonomy to make decisions that positively influence their health
and development. It is therefore important for all national stakeholders to accelerate targeted
investment efforts in adolescent girls. For example, the former Zambian vice president Inonge
Wina called on all national stakeholders and cooperating partners to accelerate targeted
investments in adolescent girls to foster equitable and sustainable national development (Chipeta
& Mwanza, 2020).

However, in Zambia, women and girls face many challenges in the process of improving socio-
economic development. One of the challenges is the lack of access to education. According to
the World Bank, only 27% of Zambian women aged 15 and above have completed some form of
secondary education, compared to 37% of men. This gender gap in education restricts women's
ability to secure decent-paying jobs and contribute to the economy (Kachika & Mwape, 2019).
To address this challenge, the Zambian government should increase investment in education and
ensure that girls have equal access to quality education. For example, scholarships and bursaries
to be provided to girls on 100% rate from disadvantaged backgrounds to enable them to
complete their education especially in institutions like the University of Zambia, Copperbelt
University and other Public Universities (Ferreira & Walton, 2005).

Another issue that hinders progress in investing in women and girls in Zambia is the lack of
access to financial resources. According to a study by the International Labour Organization,
only 22% of Zambian women have access to formal financial services, compared to 38% of men.

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This lack of access to financial resources limits women's ability to start and grow businesses,
invest in their education, or save for the future. To address this challenge, the Zambian
government need to create programs that provide women with access to financial services, such
as microfinance loans and savings accounts. Additionally, financial literacy training needs to be
provided to help women make informed decisions about managing their finances (Lim, 2023).

Gender-based violence is another major challenge that hinders progress in investing in women
and girls in Zambia. According to the United Nations Population Fund, 47% of Zambian women
have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. Gender-based violence not only
has a devastating impact on women's physical and mental health but also limits their ability to
participate fully in society and the economy (Smart & UNICEF, 2020). To address this
challenge, the Zambian government should strengthen laws and policies that protect women and
girls from violence and provide support services for survivors of gender-based violence.
Additionally, awareness campaigns can be conducted to change attitudes and behaviors that
perpetuate violence against women (Mukuka & Mwansa, 2021).

Further, the progress of women and girls investing is the lack of representation and participation
in decision-making processes. According to the World Economic Forum, only 21% of Zambian
women are in leadership positions, compared to 79% of men. In Zambian parliament, as of 2024,
only 15.6% of women are leaders compared to 84.4% of men. This lack of representation and
participation in decision-making processes limits women's ability to influence policies and
programs that affect their lives. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should
implement affirmative action policies to increase women's representation in leadership positions,
such as quotas for women in parliament and local government. Additionally, training and
mentoring programs can be provided to help women develop the skills and confidence to
participate in decision-making processes (Ferreira & Walton, 2005).

Poverty is another major challenge that hinders progress in investing in women and girls in
Zambia. According to the Zambia Statistical Agency, 54% of Zambians live below the poverty
line, with women being disproportionately affected. Poverty limits women's access to education,
healthcare, and economic opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage and
marginalization. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should implement targeted
poverty alleviation programs that specifically focus on women and girls, such as cash transfer

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programs, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Additionally, efforts should be
made to address the underlying causes of poverty, such as lack of access to land and resources
(ZAMSTAT, 2022).

Limited access to healthcare is another challenge that hinders progress in investing in women
and girls in Zambia. According to the World Health Organization, only 25% of Zambian women
have access to basic healthcare services, compared to 42% of men. This lack of access to
healthcare limits women's ability to stay healthy, seek treatment for illnesses, and access
reproductive health services. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should increase
investment in healthcare infrastructure, including clinics, hospitals, and community health
centers. Additionally, awareness campaigns can be conducted to educate women about the
importance of seeking healthcare and accessing reproductive health services (Schrauben &
Wiebe, 2017).

Cultural and traditional norms are another major challenge that hinders progress in investing in
women and girls in Zambia. Gender inequality is deeply embedded in Zambian society, with
traditional beliefs and practices limiting women's rights and opportunities. For example, early
marriage and female genital mutilation are common practices in some communities, which
restrict girls' access to education and economic opportunities. Another example among the
Chewa people of Kalonga Gawa Undi Mkhomo the 5th, there was a cultural practice of wife
swapping (chidyerano), a practice that the spread of HIV among the Chewa people. Such
practices hindered the development (Zambia Observer, 2021).

Lack of legal protection is another challenge that hinders progress in investing in women and
girls in Zambia. Women in Zambia face discrimination and violence due to gaps in the legal
framework that protect women's rights (Smart & UNICEF, 2020). For example, the lack of
legislation on domestic violence and sexual harassment makes it difficult for women to seek
justice and redress for violations of their rights. To address this challenge, the Zambian
government should strengthen laws and policies that protect women's rights, such as enacting
legislation on domestic violence and sexual harassment. Additionally, legal aid services can be
provided to help women access justice and seek redress for violations of their rights (Lim, 2023).

Inadequate access to land and property rights is another challenge that hinders progress in
investing in women and girls in Zambia. According to a study by the Food and Agriculture

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Organization, only 10% of Zambian women have legal ownership of land, compared to 35% of
men. This lack of access to land and property rights limits women's ability to secure assets,
participate in decision-making, and access credit and resources. To address this challenge, the
Zambian government should review and amend laws and policies that discriminate against
women in terms of land and property rights. Additionally, awareness campaigns can be
conducted to educate women about their rights and options for securing land ownership
(Schrauben & Wiebe, 2017).

Limited access to vocational and skills training is another challenge that hinders progress in
investing in women and girls in Zambia. According to the International Labour Organization,
only 12% of Zambian women have access to vocational and skills training, compared to 20% of
men. This lack of access to training restricts women's ability to secure decent-paying jobs, start
and grow businesses, and contribute to the economy. To address this challenge, the Zambian
government should invest in vocational and skills training programs that are accessible to women
and girls, such as entrepreneurship training, technical skills development, and leadership
training. Additionally, partnerships can be formed with the private sector to provide job
placements and internships for women (Lim, 2023).

Corruption and lack of accountability are another major challenge that hinders progress in
investing in women and girls in Zambia. According to Transparency International, Zambia ranks
113th out of 180 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index, indicating high levels of
corruption and lack of transparency in government institutions. Corruption undermines
development efforts and hinders the effective implementation of programs that benefit women
and girls. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should strengthen anti-corruption
measures, such as enacting laws that promote transparency and accountability, establishing
independent oversight bodies, and prosecuting corrupt officials. Additionally, awareness
campaigns can be conducted to educate the public about the negative impacts of corruption on
women's empowerment and socio-economic progress (Tembo & Kabwe, 2019).

Limited access to reproductive health services is another challenge that hinders progress in
investing in women and girls in Zambia. According to the World Health Organization, only 18%
of Zambian women have access to reproductive health services, such as family planning,
maternal healthcare, and HIV/AIDS prevention. This lack of access to reproductive health

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services limits women's ability to make informed decisions about their health and well-being,
leading to high rates of maternal mortality and HIV/AIDS transmission. To address this
challenge, the Zambian government should increase investment in reproductive health services,
including family planning education, maternal healthcare facilities, and HIV/AIDS prevention
programs. Additionally, partnerships can be formed with civil society organizations and
international donors to expand access to reproductive health services for women and girls (Zulu
& Mwila, 2021).

Political instability and conflict are another major challenge that hinders progress in investing in
women and girls in Zambia. Zambia ranks 96 th out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index,
indicating moderate levels of political instability and conflict. Political instability and conflict
disrupt development efforts and hinder the effective implementation of programs that benefit
women and girls. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should promote
peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives, such as dialogue and mediation processes,
reconciliation programs, and community-based peacebuilding projects. Additionally, efforts
should be made to address the root causes of conflict, such as inequality, marginalization, and
lack of political representation for women (Tembo & Kabwe, 2019).

Discrimination and gender stereotypes are another major challenge that hinders progress in
investing in women and girls in Zambia. Gender inequality is deeply entrenched in Zambian
society, with stereotypes and cultural norms that limit women's rights and opportunities. For
example, women are often expected to prioritize their caregiving roles over their education and
employment opportunities, leading to lower levels of representation in leadership positions and
higher rates of poverty. To address this challenge, the Zambian government should promote
gender equality and challenge harmful stereotypes through awareness campaigns, education
programs, and policies that promote equal rights and opportunities for women and girls.
Additionally, partnerships can be formed with civil society organizations and the private sector
to advocate for gender equality and empower women and girls to challenge discrimination and
stereotypes (Smart & UNICEF, 2020).

Lack of access to justice is another challenge that hinders progress in investing in women and
girls in Zambia. Women in Zambia face barriers to accessing justice, such as high legal costs,
lack of legal aid services, and discrimination in the criminal justice system. This lack of access to

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justice limits women's ability to seek redress for violations of their rights, such as domestic
violence, property rights violations, and discrimination in the workplace. To address this
challenge, the Zambian government should strengthen the criminal justice system, provide legal
aid services for women, and promote alternative dispute resolution mechanisms that are
accessible and gender-sensitive. Additionally, awareness campaigns can be conducted to educate
women about their legal rights and options for seeking justice (Chipeta & Mwanza, 2020).

Hence, addressing the challenges faced by women and girls in Zambia requires a multifaceted
approach. Investing in girls' education through scholarships, supplies, and transportation
assistance can boost enrollment and retention rates (Zulu & Mwila, 2021). Financial literacy
programs and tailored microfinance services can enhance women's financial skills and access to
capital for entrepreneurial ventures. Strengthening laws against gender-based violence, providing
legal aid, and raising awareness can create a safer environment. Improving healthcare
infrastructure and reproductive services empowers women to make informed decisions about
their health. Engaging with community leaders to challenge harmful gender norms and
expanding vocational training opportunities, especially in STEM fields, can further economic
empowerment and gender equality (Tembo & Kabwe, 2019).

In conclusion, investing in women and girls for accelerating socio-economic progress is essential
for achieving sustainable development in Zambia. However, there are several challenges and
issues that hinder progress in this area, such as lack of access to education, financial resources,
healthcare, representation in decision-making processes, gender-based violence, cultural norms,
legal protection, technology, environmental degradation, land and property rights, vocational
training, corruption, reproductive health services, political instability, childcare, water and
sanitation, social protection, ICTs, discrimination, and access to justice. To address these
challenges, the Zambian government should implement a comprehensive and multi-sectoral
approach that includes policy reforms, increased investment, awareness campaigns, capacity-
building programs, partnerships with civil society organizations and the private sector, and
engagement with local communities. By addressing these challenges and promoting gender
equality, women's empowerment, and inclusive development, Zambia can accelerate socio-
economic progress and achieve lasting change for women and girls.

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 REFERENCES

Chipeta, C., & Mwanza, J. (2020). “Challenges and Opportunities for Women's Empowerment in
Zambia: A Case Study of Rural Women in Chipata District.” Journal of Gender Studies,
10(2), 145-162.

Ferreira, F. H., & Walton, M. (2005). World Development Report 2006: Equity and
Development. New York: World Bank Publications.

Kachika, T., & Mwape, B. (2019). “Gender-Based Violence in Zambia: Causes, Impacts, and
Policy Responses.” International Journal of Social Sciences, 5(1), 78-94.

Lim, L. L. (2023). More & Better Jobs for Women: An Action Guide: an ILO Follow-up to the
Fourth World Conference on Women and the World Summit for Social Development.
International Labour Organization. London: London University Press.

Mukuka, M., & Mwansa, C. (2021). “Enhancing Women's Access to Education in Zambia:
Policy Considerations and Recommendations.” Journal of African Education Research, 15(3),
210-225.

Schrauben, S. J., & Wiebe, D. J. (2017). “Health Literacy Assessment in Developing Countries:
A Case Study In Zambia.” Health Promotion International, 32(3), 475-481.

Smart, G., & UNICEF. (2020). Investing in The Pathways to Employment: for Adolescent Girls
and Young Women in Low and Middle-Income Countries. London: UNICEF.

Tembo, T., & Kabwe, L. (2019). “Addressing Gender Inequality in Zambia: Policy Frameworks
and Implementation Challenges.” Journal of Gender and Development, 12(1), 45-62.

Zambia Observer. (2021). “Chidyelano, A Traditional Practice of Exchanging Wives and

Husbands For Sexual Pleasure In Eastern Province Has Gained Momentum.” Lusaka
Times, 3-4.

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ZAMSTAT. (2022). 2022 Poverty Assessment in Zambia. Lusaka: Government Press.

Zulu, B., & Mwila, M. (2021). “Promoting Women's Health and Well-being in Zambia:
Challenges and Opportunities.” Journal of Health Policy and Planning, 8(3), 301-318.