Abstract

Women’s representation and performance in politics and decision-making positions is very poor despite several legislation and policies being adopted to achieve equality between men and women. One of the major findings of this study was that women’s representation has remained below 20% in all the past elections at councilor, mayor or council chairperson and parliamentary level. Political parties are the primary and most direct vehicle through which women can attain elected office and political leadership, therefore, the structures, policies, practices and values of political parties have a profound impact on the level of women’s participation in politics. In order to bring about meaningful representation and performance of women in politics there is serious need for combined effort from the government, civil society, political parties, political leaders (Women and Men) and members of the public.
Gender equality and women's empowerment are fundamental aspects of sustainable development. In the case of Zambia, representation and performance of women in various domains play a crucial role in shaping the country's social, economic and political landscape.