Community Monitors Lead the Way on Women’s Rights in Zambia’s Mining Communities

Across Zambia’s mining regions, a wave of grassroots action is gaining momentum as trained community monitors step forward to advance women’s rights. Following our capacity-building efforts focused on gender equity and social justice, three monitors—Chinyama Hachipoka, Pastor Sumaili, and Robert Chilufya—have launched bold initiatives that apply their training at community level.

Community Dialogue in Serenje

On 1 May 2025, Chinyama Hachipoka mobilised a significant community dialogue in Chief Mailo’s area of Serenje, where over 220 residents gathered to engage in an open discussion on women’s rights. The session was led by Chief Mailo himself and addressed critical issues ranging from economic participation to protection from gender-based violence.

The Chief’s public endorsement of women’s rights marked a powerful moment of traditional leadership aligning with progressive advocacy.

Faith-Based Leadership in Solwezi

In Kabwela Village, under Chief Kapijimpanga in Solwezi, Pastor Sumaili hosted a dissemination meeting at Kabwela School, where more than 60 women came together to learn about the rights and protections available to them.

Drawing from religious teachings and human rights principles, Pastor Sumaili emphasised the importance of dignity, participation, and justice, especially for women whose lives are directly affected by mining operations.

Youth Power and Theatre in Chambishi

In Chambishi, Robert Chilufya took a creative and inclusive approach by engaging with the Chambishi Youth Friendly Corner. Recognising the potential of youth-led advocacy, Chilufya facilitated a dialogue that framed women’s rights as essential to community development.

The dialogue led to a bold commitment: the launch of drama sensitisation performances across all market areas in Chambishi. These performances will use theatre to spark dialogue, challenge harmful norms, and empower women with knowledge.

This growing network of community monitors is translating training into real-world impact—mobilising leaders, uplifting voices, and reshaping narratives in Zambia’s mining communities. Their efforts signal a shift towards more inclusive, locally driven approaches to gender justice in the extractives sector.