More than one-third (36%) of Zambian women have experienced physical violence since age 15. In 2022, a staggering 63.3% increase in gender-based violence was reported by The Victim Support Unit of the Zambia police, compared to the cases recorded in 2021. In response to this growing crisis, the “Boys Concern” project was launched. Led by Peter Mukuka, on 27th October 2024, the project empowered 401 adolescent boys in a secondary school in Lusaka District with leadership skills to advocate for gender equality and gender-based violence prevention within their communities.
These boys have become Peace Ambassadors, advocating for girls’ safety, speaking out against GBV, and promoting peace in schools, homes, and communities.