The Scourge of Sexual Assault Against Women and Girls in Zambia: A Call to Action

At Sport In Action, we believe in the power of sports to drive development, empower communities, and create safer spaces for all. Today, we step beyond the field to address a grave injustice plaguing our nation—the rising cases of sexual assault against women and girls in Zambia.

Recent reports from the Zambia Police Service paint a harrowing picture: Sexual violence against women and girls continues to surge, with many cases going unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of trust in the justice system. Each statistic represents a life traumatized, a future disrupted, and a community failing its most vulnerable.

Survivors of sexual assault endure deep physical, emotional, and psychological scars, often facing long-term struggles with mental health, relationships, and self-worth. As an organization committed to youth and women’s empowerment through sport, we cannot stay silent.

Sport as a Tool for Awareness and Change

Through Sport for Development, we educate young athletes on gender equality, consent, and bodily autonomy. Our programs (LifeSkills & Girls In Action) create safe spaces where girls can build confidence, speak up, and demand respect. But education alone is not enough—we must act.

Walking for Awareness and Justice

In solidarity with survivors, advocates, and communities, Sport In Action today took part in an awareness walk to:

Demand stronger laws and swifter justice for perpetrators.

Call for better support systems for survivors, including medical and psychological care.

Encourage communities to break the silence and report abuse without fear.

Promote a culture of respect and zero tolerance for gender-based violence.

Sport unites people, and today, we use that unity to amplify the voices of survivors and demand change. We urge government leaders, law enforcement, NGOs, schools, and every citizen to join in this crucial movement.

What You Can Do

1.Speak Out: Report sexual violence—silence protects perpetrators, not victims.

2. Educate: Teach boys and girls about consent, respect, and gender equality.

3. Support Survivors: Advocate for accessible legal, medical, and counseling services.

A Future Free from Fear

Zambia’s strength lies in how it protects its women and girls. Sport In Action remains committed to fostering safe spaces through sports, but real change requires all of us.

Together, let’s end sexual assault. Together, let’s build a Zambia where every woman and girl can live without fear.