The Gender Division under the Office of the President has taken a significant step towards promoting gender equality by welcoming the launch of the Standing Up for Boy Child Initiative Zambia (SUBCIZ). 

Director for Gender Development Division, Henry Khoma, graced the event on behalf of Acting Permanent Secretary, Kennedy Kalunga and stated that the initiative aims to recognise the unique challenges faced by boys and young men in the country to provide them with adequate support. 

ZANIS reports that Mr Kalunga emphasised the significance of the initiative, stating that discussions around gender equality have largely focused on the girl child, while overlooking the equally pressing challenges faced by boys.w

“The initiative seeks to bridge existing gaps by providing boys and young men aged seven to 24 with tools, skills, and resources to overcome challenges such as poor educational outcomes, limited access to economic opportunities, vulnerability to diseases, mental health struggles, and substance abuse,” he said.

He added that the government had reaffirmed its commitment to fostering gender equity, ensuring equal opportunities for both boys and girls to succeed. 

Mr Kalunga further highlighted that various programmes and initiatives, including the Voluntary Zambia National Service Skills Development Programme and free education policies, have been put in place to support youth empowerment.

Meanwhile, Mildred Chinyanta, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of SUBCIZ, emphasised the need for increased investment in education for boys, equal access to scholarships and bursaries, and regulation of betting and illegal liquor stores. 

Ms Chinyanta also stressed the importance of integrating mental health into the education curriculum and strengthening legal protection for boys.

She noted that by working together with the government, civil society, and other stakeholders, the nation can create a brighter future for the boy child and young men.