By: Dr Thenjiwe Sisimayi and Dr Joseph Chiluba
In the month of December, Zambia’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Financing Alliance for Health (FAH), successfully hosted a transformative Gender Transformative Leadership (GTL) Workshop. The workshop was attended by Senior and Middle Level Managers in the Ministry of Health representing all levels of the health system. This event marked a bold step forward in aligning Zambia’s health sector leadership with the principles of equity and inclusivity.
What is Gender Transformative Leadership?
GTL is a leadership approach that goes beyond addressing symptoms of inequality. It seeks to challenge and transform harmful gender norms, promoting inclusive policies and equitable decision-making. The goal is simple yet profound: better health outcomes for all, regardless of gender.
Highlights from the Workshop
- Engaging Content and Frameworks
Participants explored tools and frameworks such as:
- Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB): The standout session, which demonstrated how equity-oriented resource allocation can enhance service delivery.
- Gender Analysis Frameworks: Practical tools for identifying and addressing gender gaps in health programs like maternal health and adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH).
- Interactive Exercises
- Case Studies: Real-life programs were analyzed to identify gaps and develop transformative strategies.
- Role-Plays: Leaders practiced gender-sensitive decision-making in health crises and routine management scenarios.
- Practical Exercises: Undertaking high-level gender analysis of the MoH, participants actively engaged in understanding of Gender Analysis using the Ministry of Health as a Live Case study
What Participants Had to Say
The workshop sparked thought-provoking discussions, with one recurring realization: “Gender is not just about women!” Participants delved into the interconnectedness of gender and health, recognizing that equitable policies benefit everyone.
Here are a few reflections:
- On Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB):
“I now see how critical it is to align budgets with community needs. GRB is a game-changer for ensuring that resources reach the most vulnerable.”
- On Shifting Mindsets:
“I walked in thinking this was another ‘women’s issue’ workshop. I now understand it’s about equity for all, and how that improves health for the entire population.”
Why This Matters for Zambia’s Health Sector
- Tackling Health Inequities:
Rural women face disproportionate barriers to accessing maternal health services. GRB and gender analysis empower leaders to allocate resources and design programs to bridge these gaps.
- Promoting Inclusive Leadership:
The health sector can only achieve its goals when all voices, including those of women and marginalized groups, are represented in leadership and decision-making.
- Enhancing Accountability:
Embedding gender equity in health policies ensures the Ministry delivers on its commitments to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).
FAH’s Role in Supporting Zambia
FAH was honored to facilitate this workshop and provide tools and technical support to strengthen Zambia’s health systems. As a trusted partner, FAH remains committed to working with Zambia to integrate gender equity into all aspects of health leadership and programming.
In the words of an FAH Health Financing Advisor, Dr Joseph Chiluba:
“Gender equality is not just a priority; it is the foundation of sustainable health systems. FAH stands with Zambia in building a health sector that leaves no one behind.”
A Call to Action
As Zambia’s Ministry of Health takes this bold step toward transformation, the work does not end here. Sustained advocacy, action plans, and measurable outcomes are essential to turning these lessons into lasting change.
“Financing Alliance for Health stands in solidarity with Zambia’s Ministry of Health in championing gender equity. Together, we can build a health sector where all voices are heard, resources are equitably shared, and everyone has access to the care they deserve.” FAH Gender Advisor, Dr Thenjiwe Sisimayi
Join the Conversation:
- How can you champion gender-transformative leadership in your own spheres of influence? Join us in creating a health system that is truly for all.
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