International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated annually in Zambia, serving as a national public holiday that honors the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also acts as a platform to advocate for gender equality and women's empowerment across the country.

When is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day in Zambia is celebrated every year on March 8.

The following is the list of International Women's Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of International Women's Day?

International Women's Day was born from early 20th century labor and suffrage movements in North America and Europe. In 1909, the first "Woman's Day" was observed in New York by the Socialist Party.

In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed a global Women's Day at the International Socialist Women's Conference in Copenhagen. The first International Women's Day celebrated across Europe on March 19, 1911.

Two years after, Russia officially adopted March 8 in 1913, and in 1977, United Nation (UN) officially recognized March 8 as International Women's Day.

Before 1964, during colonial times, women in Zambia (then Northern Rhodesia) faced significant social and economic barriers, with limited formal advocacy space for gender rights.

After gaining independence in 1964, Zambia began building its national identity with growing attention to women's participation in politics and social development.

In 1996, through the efforts of Chibesa Kankasa, one of Zambia's most influential women leaders, and the Zambian women's movement, March 8th was officially declared a national public holiday.