WVD in Africa
Empowering Women, Advancing Rights. WVD Zambia’s Impact on International Women’s Day
On March 8th, 2025, World Vasectomy Day (WVD) Zambia proudly joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day in Lusaka. The vibrant event began at Goma Lakes within the University of Zambia, bringing together people from all walks of life, including representatives from government, public and private sectors, NGOs, labor movements, religious organizations, political parties, schools, and universities.
A standout highlight of the day was the participation of the WVD Zambia-supported 100 Responsible Men’s Club, which was joined by 35 women advocates who support the cause. Together, they participated in a spirited 3.4-kilometer march that attracted over 5,000 men and women, each donning colorful organizational regalia.
The delegation from WVD Zambia attracted considerable attention as the men carried children on their backs. This act represented co-parenting and highlighted their dedication to responsible fatherhood. This striking image emphasizes that family planning and shared responsibilities are essential components to achieving gender equality.
A group of women, mostly wives of champions, celebrating International Women’s Day
The event was further enhanced by the presence of the Guest of Honor, Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango of Zambia. The Vice President toured the stands and specifically visited our WVD Zambia exhibition stand. There, she met Ms. Micheline Chanda, one of WVD Zambia’s representatives, who explained the organization’s mission and services. Ms. Chanda highlighted the pivotal role of vasectomy as a permanent male contraceptive method and its importance in promoting shared responsibility in family planning. Her Honor the Vice President was elated by the fact that there is an organization promoting male engagement in family planning and she pledged government support for the crucial partnership WVD is fostering.
The first picture shows Ms. Chanda of WVD Zambia speaking with Vice President H.E. W.K. Mutale Nalumango. The second picture shows Mr. Zulu (right) and Mr. Mofu (left) demonstrating the importance of co-parenting by carrying babies during the Women’s Day celebrations
During the day, the WVD Zambia exhibition stand functioned as an interactive center for participants. Guests filled out questionnaires, shared their opinions and concerns, and inquired about vasectomy. The team tackled myths and misconceptions by delivering accurate information to promote informed choices. Vox pops provided an engaging element, capturing public views and assessing attendees’ awareness of vasectomy.
The event underscored WVD Zambia’s commitment to fostering open dialogue on family planning, challenging traditional gender norms, and promoting shared responsibility. Men’s visible participation in the march alongside women was an empowering demonstration of unity in the fight for gender equality. It also reinforced the need for male involvement in family planning decisions, ensuring that conversations about contraception are inclusive and collaborative.
WVD Zambia highlighted its commitment to community empowerment, gender equality, and sustainable family planning solutions through its active participation in this global celebration. The day’s activities left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of their shared responsibility in creating a more equitable society.
Together, we continue to champion informed choices and shared roles in family planning, paving the way for a brighter future.
Strengthening Vasectomy Advocacy. Insights from the World Vasectomy Day Peer Educators Workshop
On March 12th and 13th, 2025, WVD Zambia held a 2-day Peer Educators Workshop themed “Strengthening Vasectomy Advocacy: Enhancing Outreach Strategies and Community Engagement for Greater Impact” at its Centre of Excellence in Lusaka – Zambia. The workshop brought together 10 Community Liaison Officers and 2 Chief Community Volunteers to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate for vasectomy awareness effectively.
Mr. Gregory Mofu, WVD Zambia’s Program Officer, spearheaded this training. The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of vasectomy procedures and benefits, equip them with effective communication strategies, and provide knowledge on how to approach men about vasectomy. Additionally, it emphasized the role of vasectomy in family planning and trained participants to mobilize men within their communities.
The workshop was officially inaugurated by WVD Zambia Country Director, Mr. Zulu Daliso, who highlighted the significance of equipping peer educators with the knowledge to advocate for vasectomy awareness. Participants were introduced to the organization’s background, core values, and mission. Ms. Kabanshi Chibanga led a session on the Social Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) model, explaining its role in community mobilization and program design for vasectomy advocacy. Dr. Ospensio Nkhuwa facilitated discussions on family planning options, the vasectomy procedure, and its benefits, myths, and misconceptions.
Group discussions allowed participants to tackle critical topics such as masculinity debates, misconceptions, trust and promiscuity concerns, and breaking cultural barriers through effective communication. These discussions encouraged critical thinking and engagement, helping participants refine their approach to vasectomy advocacy.
The second day focused on post-vasectomy care, led by Dr. Kachacha, where participants gained knowledge on managing discomfort, pregnancy prevention, and potential risks. Dr. Mark Yusto facilitated a session on demand generation techniques, providing strategies to create awareness and encourage vasectomy uptake. He also covered the role of peer educators and the importance of ethics, confidentiality, and maintaining client trust. Another round of group discussions allowed participants to explore misconceptions about family planning, separate myths from facts about male family planning options, and discuss strategies for managing stigma and promoting informed choices.
The workshop wrapped up with a graduation ceremony celebrating the successful completion of the training. Participants reported acquiring valuable insights into vasectomy, peer education, data collection, and confidentiality. They felt more confident engaging men in conversations about vasectomy and family planning, effectively tackling misconceptions and cultural obstacles. The facilitators garnered positive feedback, and the training was overall viewed as a success, with all attendees giving it high ratings. A few participants recommended lengthening the training period for an even more significant impact.
The workshop strengthened vasectomy awareness efforts by equipping community liaison officers and volunteers with essential knowledge and advocacy skills. This initiative lays a solid foundation for future demand-generation activities, fostering greater acceptance of vasectomy as a viable family planning option.
World Vasectomy Day Zambia to Champion Environmental Stewardship on Earth Day 2025
On April 22, 2025, World Vasectomy Day Zambia (WVD), through its Responsible Men’s Club (RMC), will lead a community cleanup in the Chelstone area of Lusaka to mark World Earth Day. Members will focus on unclogging drainage systems along District Road, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability and public health.
This initiative highlights the crucial role men play beyond family planning, advocating for a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations. Blocked drainage systems pose significant health risks, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes that spread malaria and bacteria that cause cholera. Clogged drains also contribute to flooding and environmental degradation.
By restoring drainage functionality, the RMC aims to reduce disease spread, mitigate pollution, and improve overall community well-being. This effort aligns with WVD’s broader mission of encouraging men to take leadership roles in fostering healthier and more sustainable living conditions.
Chelstone residents are expected to recognize the impact of collective action on sanitation and community pride. WVD hopes this initiative will inspire more men to engage in environmental conservation as a fundamental responsibility.
As Earth Day 2025 approaches, WVD’s participation will highlight the vital connection between environmental care and public health, demonstrating that small, consistent efforts can create lasting, positive change for communities and future generations.
A before-and-after image showcasing the cleanup efforts in celebration of Earth Day.
