Hotline Launched to Combat Violence Against Women in Zambia’s 2026 Elections

 Lusaka, Zambia — In response to rising concerns over sexual exploitation, harassment, and intimidation targeting women in politics, Lifeline/Childline Zambia has intensified efforts to protect women’s participation ahead of the 2026 General Elections by promoting the 933 Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE) Hotline.

Working in partnership with cooperating organisations and key national institutions, the organisation is raising public awareness of the hotline as a critical tool for reporting and addressing election-related abuse.

Chief Executive Officer Florence Nkhuwa said the toll-free hotline offers a confidential reporting and support system for women experiencing election-related violence. This includes sexual coercion, intimidation, harassment, and other forms of abuse connected to political participation.

She explained that survivors and witnesses can access support services by calling 933, 116, or 944, where they will receive counselling, referrals, and immediate assistance.

The initiative comes amid growing concern following recent media reports and public statements from traditional leaders, political figures, civil society actors, and the Gender Division. These reports have highlighted troubling allegations of female aspirants being pressured into providing sexual favours in exchange for political adoption.

Nkhuwa emphasised that such acts constitute Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE), describing them as serious violations that undermine democratic processes, discourage women’s leadership, and threaten the integrity of elections.

“Violence against women has no place in Zambia’s elections and politics and should not be the cost of women’s political participation,” she said.

“This hotline is a lifeline. Women must be able to participate in politics without fear. The 933, 116, and 944 numbers exist so that no woman faces violence alone. Reporting early helps prevent escalation, supports survivors, and strengthens accountability.”

Nkhuwa further noted that anonymised data collected through the hotline will contribute to national monitoring, prevention, and response efforts throughout the electoral period.

The initiative forms part of a broader commitment by civil society and its partners to promote safe, inclusive, and credible elections, ensuring women are protected as voters, candidates, party members, and leaders.

Members of the public, victims, and witnesses are encouraged to report incidents or seek support through the hotline services, which are available nationwide.